Ending Violence In Southern Border Provinces Top Priority, Says Thai PM Anutin

PUTRAJAYA, July 9 (Bernama) -- Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul on Thursday said ending violence and addressing challenges in the country's southern border provinces remain among his government's top priorities.

Speaking at a joint press conference with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on Thursday, Anutin said Thailand and Malaysia would maintain close and sustained cooperation to advance security and development in the border areas.

"Peace creates the conditions for development, while development helps build lasting peace," he said.

Anutin also expressed appreciation for Malaysia's role as facilitator of the Southern Thailand Peace Dialogue process. 

He welcomed Anwar's assurance that Malaysia does not condone violence and will continue working closely with Thailand to bring those responsible to justice.

Malaysia’s role in the southern Thailand peace process involves facilitating talks between the Thai government and relevant parties, including the Barisan Revolusi Nasional (BRN).

The Malaysian team is led by Mohd Rabin Basir, a former director-general of the National Security Council, who was appointed on July 1, 2024, while Thailand's chief negotiator is Thanat Suwannanont, director of its National Intelligence Agency (NIA).
-- BERNAMA