Bangkok: The Prime Minister of Thailand has confirmed the delay of planned discussions with the United States, initially set for April 23. This postponement was acknowledged during a Cabinet meeting that also focused on significant financial and environmental proposals.
According to Thai News Agency, Prime Minister Paethongtarn Shinawatra announced the rescheduling of talks with the US, promising further details post-Cabinet meeting. The meeting saw Deputy Minister of Finance Chulaphan Amornvivat engaging with the Prime Minister to discuss key agenda items before proceeding to the main session.
A critical focus of the Cabinet meeting was the Ministry of Finance’s presentation of the government’s financial report for the fiscal year 2024. They proposed securing loans from the Asian Development Bank to enhance the Eastern Economic Corridor’s transportation infrastructure, including the No. 7 Intercity Motorway extension linking to U-Tapao International Airport. Additionally, a loan from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank was proposed for expanding U-Tapao Airport, aimed at constructing a second runway and taxiway.
The agenda also covered anti-corruption efforts, with the National Anti-Corruption Commission presenting strategies to prevent misconduct in public service recruitment, aligned with APEC’s transparency objectives. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment outlined a Memorandum of Understanding with Cambodia to tackle transboundary environmental pollution.
Furthermore, the Office of the National Water Resources sought Cabinet approval for the 2025 fiscal budget to enhance water management projects, addressing drought and irregular rainfall issues.
Notably, four Cabinet members were absent from the meeting, indicating the challenging schedule faced by the government officials. These included Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, Education Minister Pol. Gen. Phrompun Chidchob, Deputy Minister of Commerce Suchart Chomklin, and Deputy Minister of Finance Phaophoom Rojanasakul.