Bangkok: The Prime Minister’s Secretary-General disclosed that the government has thoroughly evaluated the Foreign Minister’s participation in the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) meeting.
According to Thai News Agency, the government consulted with the Council of State and the Deputy Prime Minister on legal matters, asserting that this mission is urgent and crucial for safeguarding national interests as per the Constitution.
Ms. Traisulee Traisaranakul, Secretary-General to the Prime Minister, addressed concerns raised by academics and political critics regarding Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkaew’s attendance at the 80th UNGA in New York potentially breaching the Constitution. She clarified that the government acted with due diligence and adhered to all legal stipulations.
At the Cabinet meeting on September 24, 2015, the Minister of Foreign Affairs reported his assignment by the Prime Minister to lead the Thai delegation to the 80th United Nations General Assembly during Leaders’ Week from September 23 to 30, 2015. His responsibilities included delivering a statement to the General Assembly on September 27 and engaging with the UN Secretary-General. Additionally, he aimed to present Thailand’s stance and facts concerning Thai-Cambodian relations to counter any unilateral narratives from Cambodia on the global platform.
The Cabinet meeting sought guidance from the Office of the Council of State, which confirmed that the Cabinet assumes administrative duties of the state after taking the oath of office to the King, in accordance with Section 12 of the Constitution. While Section 162 mandates the Cabinet to present its policies to Parliament, Section 162, paragraph 2, allows for actions in urgent matters affecting national interests. Consequently, this trip aligns with constitutional requirements.
Furthermore, Deputy Prime Minister for Legal Affairs, Mr. Bowornsak Uwanno, clarified that the Foreign Minister’s attendance at the 80th UNGA was necessary to protect significant national interests. It offered a chance to address issues directly involving neighboring countries, thus falling within the legal framework and not violating the Constitution.
Ms. Traisulee noted that similar actions had occurred in the past. In 2008, the Cabinet acknowledged the assignment of the then Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs to attend the 63rd UNGA, even without a policy statement to Parliament. The Council of State had opined that such actions were permissible when urgent with a specific timeframe. The UNGA statement reflected the country’s stance, separate from government policy.
“The government, led by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, adheres to the principle of prudence and thoroughness, prioritizing national interest. The appointment of the Minister of Foreign Affairs to attend the 80th UNGA aligns with legal and constitutional principles, aiming to assert Thailand’s rights and dignity globally,” stated Ms. Traisulee.
The Prime Minister’s Secretary-General emphasized that the government is committed to seizing opportunities on the international stage, particularly concerning relations with Cambodia. This decision underscores the government’s resolve to protect national interests, with all actions conforming to legal frameworks.