Showing 1 - 10 of 35
The rise and fall of Srettha Thavisin
Oped, Kavi Chongkittavorn, Published on 20/08/2024
» While leaders come and go, they leave behind a legacy that can be mixed, varying from glory to ignominy. Only a few leave nothing much to remember. As for Thailand's 30th prime minister, Srettha Thavisin, it was cursory at best. Overall, it's a good case study on how pomposity and self-adulation affect leadership.
Tackling the scammers on the border
Oped, Paskorn Jumlongrach, Published on 05/07/2024
» Abbas (assumed name) and Beni were excited when their friend and compatriot, Chihab, offered them a lucrative e-commerce job in Thailand. Abbas and Beni accepted the offer at once. The monthly salary started at US$1,000 (36,000 baht) and they were told the boss would double the salary after they gained more experience.
Relations thrive amid hardship
Oped, Published on 14/05/2024
» As we celebrate Israel's 76th Independence Day, we do so this year with mixed emotions of joy and solemn reflection. This milestone is a testament to our nation's enduring resilience and remarkable achievements, yet it is shadowed by the immense challenges we have faced in the past year.
Towards strategic Thai-French ties
Oped, Kavi Chongkittavorn, Published on 14/05/2024
» In April 2022, Thailand learned that French President Emmanuel Macron was keen to engage with the Asia-Pacific region in person. As the host of the 32nd Asia-Pacific Economic Leaders' Meeting (Apec) in October of that year, former deputy prime minister and foreign minister Don Pramudwinai quickly issued an invitation to the president to attend as a guest. The rest, as they say, is history.
Thai-Israeli relations need recalibrating
Oped, Kavi Chongkittavorn, Published on 23/04/2024
» This year, Thailand and Israel celebrate 70 years of diplomatic ties. Obviously, this comes during a period of great strain for Israel and the broader Middle East. Amidst it all, Thailand must recalibrate one of its most important foreign policies in the Middle East; otherwise, there will be nothing to celebrate.
Bolstering UK-Thai shared interests
Oped, Published on 20/03/2024
» Britain and Thailand are two nations on either side of our world. And yet, returning to Bangkok this week, I am struck by our many similarities.
Not all are celebrating this year
Oped, Published on 13/03/2024
» Last week, just days before International Women's Day, the United Nations Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict, Pramila Patten, issued a report following her team's visit to Israel and the West Bank.
Oh no, he's put his foot in it again!
Oped, Veera Prateepchaikul, Published on 29/11/2023
» Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is no stranger to verbal gaffes, which may hurt the feelings of Thais or, worse, inflict political damage. His latest "slip of the tongue" at a meeting of the Pheu Thai Party's executive and MPs over special favours for police promotions is a case in point which could also expose him to legal action.
Parnpree to diplomats: 'Don't give up'
Oped, Kavi Chongkittavorn, Published on 28/11/2023
» 'Do not take no for an answer" could be the new hashtag for all Thai diplomats from now on. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahidha-Nukara instructed his lieutenants not to give up or allow themselves to be turned down too easily when they are pursuing a "proactive economic policy".
New shifts in Thai Middle East policy
Oped, Kavi Chongkittavorn, Published on 14/11/2023
» The past five weeks have been a hellish time for the new Srettha government, with 39 Thai workers killed and many others injured and kidnapped in the Israel-Hamas war. Despite Thais being categorised as "innocent", "unarmed", and "non-lethal", they have suffered the highest casualties among foreigners in Israel.