PUBLISHED: 24 Apr 2024 at 05 :13
The government committee in charge of the situation along the Thai-Myanmar borders laid down the model for handling migrants and security reactions as it assessed the entire position in its first meeting on Tuesday.
Chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara, the meeting was held back of his observation trip in the evening in Tak’s Mae Sot area, opposite the city of Myawaddy in Myanmar, where the battle between insurgent fighters and junta troops escalated over the weekend.
Mr Parnpree’s group included Defence Minister Sutin Klungsang and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul.
About 3,000 Burmese citizens have fled the city to Mae Sot area to take shelter. Yet, as of Tuesday, the number of individuals at momentary homes in the two regions of Mae Sot and Umphang had dropped to 983, according to local authorities.
The meeting, the first since the committee was set up by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin on April 11, covered all elements of the Myanmar issue that may affect Thailand. Chief among them were arrangements for a probable influx of refugees and safety measures.
Nikorndej Balankura, spokeswoman for the Foreign Affairs Ministry, said attendees at the conference agreed on three main principles: protecting the government’s independence, no allowing Thailand to be used to perform activities against Myanmar’s state, and upholding humanitarian principles without bias.
The National Security Council ( NSC ) is assigned to closely monitor the Myanmar situation while the Foreign Affairs Ministry has been tasked with coordinating with the international community and international organisations, he said.
Mr Nikorndej said the Myanmar situation is volatile and needs to be assessed on an hourly basis, but noted that Mr Parnpree’s visit is expected to provide a clearer picture, especially on the fighting, security for Thai nationals and humanitarian aid to affected people.
Mr Nikorndej said the Thai government is equipped to provide assistance to people seeking refuge and stands ready to mediate peace talks if required.
Asked about the possibility of any group involved in the conflict setting up a force on Thai soil, he said that would never be allowed.