Sutin Klungsang, the Minister of Defence, along with other related agencies, embarked on a trip to China on Thursday to discuss with the Chinese private sectors and other concerned agencies regarding the anticipated acquisition of a submarine for Thailand.
The meetings were held to assess whether the procurement process should proceed or be abandoned and to comprehend its potential implications. This crucial information would subsequently be presented to the Thai prime minister for further contemplation, as reported by Thai national media.
The discussions also revolved around three pivotal guidelines that had been previously submitted to the Thai Attorney General’s Office. These guidelines pertained to a proposed contract amendment with the Chinese government. If accepted, this amendment would result in an extension of the existing contract and the procurement of a specific type of engine.
However, it is important to note that the Thai Cabinet must first give its approval to the amendment for its further consideration in the context of the bilateral relations between the two nations. The proposed amendment and its potential implications were being meticulously scrutinised before they could be presented to the Thai prime minister.
An alternative possibility that was being deliberated upon, according to Thai national media, was the procurement of a frigate instead of a submarine. However, the final call on this matter would only be taken once the Chinese government’s response to the offer was known, reported Pattaya News.
In the meantime, the Thai government is closely monitoring the situation, ready to address any legal issues that might surface during this process. The anticipation around this significant defence deal continues to build, and the eventual outcome is eagerly awaited by all parties involved.
In related news, in a high-profile diplomatic move, Sutin has declared war on PM2.5 pollution, setting the stage for a showdown with Cambodia. The minister is gearing up for a fierce clash during the 16th General Border Committee (GBC) meeting in Phnom Penh. He pointed fingers at Cambodian farm practices exacerbating pollution woes across borders.
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