NLA passes law to develop EEC

BANGKOK, Feb 9 – The National Legislative Assembly on Thursday unanimously passed the bill on the development of the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) on its second and third readings. It will lead to the proper land use and industrial development in the East and enhance national competitiveness. The EEC cover Chon Buri, Rayong and Chachoengsao provinces. Before the passage, Deputy Prime Minister Wissanu Krea-ngam, as head of the committee scrutinizing the bill, told the NLA that the bill had undergone public hearings and been also formulated on information from the National Human Rights Commission. The bill would ensure the proper and efficient use of land in the East for the sake of national competitiveness, he said. Land in the region will be used to develop high-technology industries, innovation and commercial areas. The development will be environment-friendly and the Eastern Economic Corridor would be well connected to other regions, Mr Wissanu said. NLA members discussed the bill widely. Then the NLA passed it with 170 votes in favour and 10 abstentions. (TNA)