During 20-21 February 2010, Mr. Kasit Piromya, Minister of Foreign Affairs, led a group of ambassadors and diplomats from embassies of 12 countries such as Peru, Argentina, South Africa, Chile, Canada, Switzerland etc., on a visit to the Southern Border Provinces (SBPs). The trip provided an opportunity for the foreign envoys to have a comprehensive picture and understanding on the current situation in the SBPs.
On 20 February 2010, Foreign Minister Kasit and the envoys visited the Sufficiency Economy Learning Centre in Yarang District, Pattani Province. The centre was set up to help and train the locals in sustainable living and development in accordance with the “Sufficiency Economy” philosophy. The group also visited Piyamumang Village, Yaring District, which is a model village of peace and harmony between Thai Buddhists and Thai Muslims residents. They also met and exchanged views with members of the Central Islamic Committee of Pattani at the Pattani Central Mosque.
On 21 February 2010, the group met with academicians and local NGOs, and received briefing from Datoh Justice and Peace Advisory committee of SBP Administrative Centre. Foreign Minister Kasit and the envoys also visited the model farm project “Wang Phaya-Thathong” under the Royal Initiation of Her Majesty the Queen in Raman District, Yala Province. Later, the group went to Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC) 4th Region Interview Center at Inkayuthboriharn Army Camp, Pattani Province.
During the visit, the Foreign Minister held wide-ranging discussions with the envoys and leaders of the local communities. The organized trip was an opportunity for the visiting ambassadors and diplomats to learn about Thailand’s policy on resolving the problem in the SBPs and to receive first hand information on the local way of life and living conditions. The participating ambassador and diplomats were impressed with the opportunity to see and understand the situation in the SBPs, which is not serious as perceived from the media. They also appreciated the Royal Thai Government’s policies to resolve the problem in the area.
For further information, please contact the Press Division, Department of Information, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Tel.02-6435170, Fax.02-6435169, E-mail: div0704@mfa.go.th