4 September 2023 at 05:25 PUBLISHED
On Sunday, foreign minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara, defense secretary Sutin Klungsang, and prime minister Srettha Thavisin had breakfast with coming military officials to talk about military and security matters.
As the state prepares a scheme speech to be presented to congress, the conference was intended to ensure smooth cooperation between the Pheu Thai-led state and the armed forces.
Gen Songwit Noonpakdi, the coming commander of defense forces, Gen Charoenchai Hintao, and Adm Adung Phan-iam, who will take over the top position on October 1, were present at the luncheon. ACM Panpakdee Pattanakul, the approaching captain of the air force, was absent due to travel.
Without going into specifics, it was claimed that the meeting would only discuss the policy model. The government was prepared to support tool purchasing plans if they were deemed necessary for national security, Mr. Srettha told the top brass when they first met.
Following the meeting, Mr. Sutin stated that the approaching military leaders had indicated a willingness to adhere to the government’s plan, including the suggested switch from recruitment to deliberate enlistment and downsizing of the military.
According to him, the number of military troops was anticipated to decrease significantly in the coming year, and the government may begin to become downsized as early as 2027.
He claimed that the conference also discussed the requirements and worries of the armed forces.
The dialogue and the army’s responses to the authorities policy, according to Mr. Sutin, satisfied the prime minister.
Mr. Sutin, who had previously sought guidance from previous defense secretary Gen Thammarak Isarangkura na Ayudhaya, was scheduled to meet with ACM Sukhumpol Suwanatat on Monday.
According to reports, he is likely to assign former National Security Council secretary-general Gen Natthapon Nakpanich as his minister and former defense permanent secretary Gen Nipat Thonglek as both his helper.
Previous Fourth Army captain Gen Phisan Wattanawongkhiri, a member of the Pheu Thai list, may be chosen to serve as his advisor.
Gen Nipat claimed yesterday that Mr. Sutin had asked him to work as an associate and to examine the party’s scheme, which included military conscription and restructuring.