Thailand backs Timor-Leste
Bolbongse Vangphaen, director-general of the Department of Asean Affairs, reiterated the country's official stance during the ministry's weekly press briefing.
He said this is in line with decisions endorsed by Asean leaders in May.
"Everything was clear since the summit in May that Timor-Leste will be the new Asean member this year. We, Thailand, support Timor-Leste to be the new Asean member," Mr Bolbongse stated.
He added that while some Asean members have raised concerns, the matter is being handled under the leadership of Malaysia, this year's Asean Chair.
"It is the role of this year's Chair to negotiate and discuss to resolve the issue between Myanmar and Timor-Leste," he said.
The 58th Asean Foreign Ministers' Meeting (AMM) and Post Ministerial Conferences will take place in Kuala Lumpur from July 8 to 11.
They will serve as a platform for Asean foreign ministers and dialogue partners to address regional and global challenges and deepen cooperation.
In late May, at the 46th Asean Summit, leaders agreed that Timor-Leste would be admitted as the 11th member by the 47th Asean Summit in October.
This followed Timor-Leste's admission "in principle" in 2022 under Cambodia's Asean chairmanship.
According to a Thai PBS World report on July 2, Myanmar has objected to Timor-Leste's full membership, citing its failure to adhere to Asean's non-interference principle.
However, Mr Bolbongse said Thailand stands by the official summit resolution.
Timor-Leste, or East Timor, is the youngest country in Southeast Asia, having gained independence from Indonesia in 2002 after 24 years of occupation.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Bangkok Post
2 days ago
- Bangkok Post
A courageous article
Re: "Corrupt monks have lost their way", (Opinion, July 14). I read with interest Santisuda Ekachai's article lamenting the shocking behaviour of some corrupt monks in Thailand. As a foreigner, yes I am shocked by the greed and corruption committed. Personally, my birth country, the USA, is no stranger to outrageous acts of sexual, financial and moral wrongdoing by members of the clergy. Multiple, well-documented cases of illegal acts committed by (Western) religious leaders have left the public somewhat numb, due to the frequency of those despicable acts. Mega churches are led by cult-like figures who have no shame and aggressively defend perks such as private planes to make their travel more "efficient". I think many foreigners wish to believe that all Buddhist monks are somehow more pure and would never engage in the behaviour Ms Santisuda called out in her most recent and excellent Opinion piece. Sadly, all religions, races and countries have both good and bad with respect to the clergy. We are all susceptible to temptation and convincing ourselves that we are entitled to a few perks. After all, we deserve it, don't we? I commend Ms Santiduda for speaking out and calling this despicable behaviour to the public's attention. It's convenient to turn one's head away and "not get involved"; it takes courage to publicly condemn those who flaunt the system and have gotten away with it. Bill Clarke Survey is no good Re: "Poll finds rising economic anxieties", (Business, July 18). I've never seen such a seriously flawed survey -- and the conclusions drawn from it -- than described in "Poll finds rising economic anxieties", on July 18. It is bad enough to conduct such a survey based on only 500 Thai adults aged 16-74; such a small number makes impossible the kind of representative sampling (by age, gender, social-economic status, geographic region, etc) upon which any reasonable conclusions must be based. (Such standard sampling, for example, would likely result in a total cohort of 10 females aged in their 40s, living in the South, and coming from the middle class). Even worse is the author's constant generalising from this sample to the entire population -- as in the first sentence, "Thais fear for the future" and as to percentage results such as "nearly one-third of Thais (28%) are concerned about losing their own jobs" -- in other words, a generalisation based on 140 responses from the sample, a number which would further be reduced by subtracting those too young and too old to have jobs. Sheldon Shaeffer UN corrupt to the core Re: "Asean importance", (PostBag, July 18). Ioan Voicu has hauled out his flowery spray can of fluff stuff and painted his favourite topic of multilateralism on the backsides of the UN and Asean in a hopeless effort to make them look lovely. "Asean's voice and action are expected to consistently support the world organisation's (UN) thesis that global solidarity remains essential to safeguard progress and save lives." The UN is corrupt at its core. Remember their oil-for-food programme that suffered from widespread corruption and abuse? "Save lives"? Right. Since 2015, there have been 209 accusations across all UN peacekeeping missions, according to Al. These involve 346 peacekeepers, both military and civilian personnel, and 388 survivors, including 171 children, according to Al Jazeera's report "Why do some peacekeepers rape?" The full report was released in Aug 10, 2017. Then there is the World Health Organization, which has been trying to usurp the sovereignty of free nations since 2020 with their "pandemic treaties". Contrary to the authoritarian globalist import of Ioan Voicu's letter, Asean member states would be better off staying as far away from UN "doctrine" as possible. Michael Setter Tourism perils Re: "Holiday hazards", (PostBag, July 17). Citing a study by the Every Life insurance company -- which rated Thailand the world's 9th-most dangerous country (PostBag, July 17) -- Paul writes in his PostBag letter dated July 17, arguing that this must be the reason many Chinese tourists are avoiding Thailand. These Chinese tourists are reacting to sensational reports on social media. Calling Thailand "dangerous" is patently ridiculous. Since the study was carried out by an insurance company, Thailand's high rate of traffic accidents is the probable cause for this finding. Just be careful while crossing the street. Frank Scimone Stick to the facts It is quite amazing, to say the least, that the Bangkok Post has published pro-Palestine or anti-Jewish letters, based on lies, lack of knowledge, yet refuses to accept factually presented letters. The continuous hammering of Jews in letters to the editor needs some more perspective. Israel is fighting every day for its existence. The myth of the occupation of Palestinian lands is just like that: a myth. Never ever was there a Palestinian state. In 1948, the Palestinians were offered their own land, but this was not accepted by the Arab countries, causing the wars instigated by these countries. In 2005, they got a second chance from Israel itself, which gave full autonomy to Gaza. Israeli settlers were forcefully removed from Gaza. Instead of developing the economy, they chose war, and Israel reacted. Talking about a real genocide is in the Hamas charter, which states, "kill all Jews". How many terrorist attacks have taken place in Israel on false grounds of occupation? To be clear, I am not a fan of Israel, but the facts speak for themselves. Moreover, is there even one Arab country that offers the Palestinians a domicile? Must be a reason for that. The critics are lopsided in their view on the conflict. They seem to forget Hamas started the war, committing acts not seen in recent times. Moreover, there is no genocide. War crimes don't equal genocide. E L Wout Thailand still amazing Re: "Signs and symptoms of Thai stagnation", (Opinion, July 18) & Safer tourism needed now", (Editorial, July 11). In recent months, the tone surrounding Thailand's tourism economy has shifted, drifting from buoyant optimism to a more cautious outlook. Concerns over softening arrivals have sparked speculation about long-term growth and viability, but for those of us who have observed this sector closely over the decades, the picture is more nuanced. I was quoted in an editorial back in 1996, during my time with Siam Express, saying that "Thailand's tourism industry is facing tough times with consumer choice, internet disruption and geopolitical impact." Jim Reed of Tour East echoed similar concerns at the time. Even then, we were speaking about patterns, waves of popularity, moments of saturation and the inevitable dips that follow. The current downturn, while real, is far from unprecedented. Analysis by the Kasikorn Bank Research Department tracks the decline in visitor arrivals to Thailand in the first half of 2025 and projects total arrivals for the year will reach 34.5 million. That figure is down from 35.5 million in 2024 and still well below the 39.9 million recorded in 2019, the final full year before the pandemic. These numbers reflect a measurable slowdown, but also a reminder that cycles, rather than collapses, define the tourism economy. History offers us perspective. Spain provides a compelling case study of cyclical tourism dynamics. Since 1946, the country has experienced at least two clear "life cycles" of tourism growth, first during the 1960s boom, and again from the mid-1990s into the early 2000s. Each phase of expansion was followed by a contraction, typically linked to wider economic pressures or geopolitical events. Tourism scholar Richard Butler's widely cited TALC model (Tourism Area Life Cycle) captures this rhythm well. His framework outlines six stages a destination typically moves through, from exploration to development, consolidation, stagnation, and ultimately either decline or rejuvenation. It's a theory that maps almost precisely onto Spain's S-shaped curve of international arrivals. In 1950, Spain welcomed fewer than a million overseas visitors. By 1973, that number had soared to 34 million. Following intermittent downturns during the oil crises of the 1970s and the global recession of 2008–09, Spain rebounded spectacularly. In 2024, the country welcomed a record-breaking 94 million international arrivals, generating €126 billion (4.7 trillion baht) and contributing more than 12% to its GDP. Yet this revival has not come without consequence. Overtourism protests have gripped the Balearics, the Canary Islands and Barcelona, with locals demanding restrictions to protect their quality of life and environment. Popularity, as ever, walks a fine line with pressure. Thailand today finds itself in a similar moment of reflection. The recent slowdown in arrivals is shaped by shifting consumer preferences, the appeal of emerging destinations, digital platforms fuelling niche travel, and lingering global uncertainties. But rather than viewing this as a sign of decline, it's more accurately a natural pause, a moment of recalibration in line with Butler's TALC theory. As tourists increasingly seek out less crowded, more meaningful, and more sustainable experiences, destinations everywhere are being forced to evolve. Spain adapted by diversifying its appeal, developing rural escapes, staging cultural festivals, promoting shoulder-season travel, and marketing events beyond the traditional summer crush. Thailand is more than capable of doing the same. The country boasts strong infrastructure, deep cultural roots, a warm sunny climate, rural richness, and a well-established tourism ecosystem. With the right strategy, emphasising sustainability, digital innovation, and more diverse offerings, Thailand's tourism sector can pivot, refresh and thrive anew. This moment is not a crisis, but a call to adapt. As markets recalibrate and the industry innovates, demand will return. Tourists are not abandoning Thailand; they are simply exploring elsewhere for now. But they'll be back.
Bangkok Post
2 days ago
- Bangkok Post
Nation edgy as decision day looms
The new US tariffs are set to have global repercussions and impact various countries unless negotiations for more favourable rates can be achieved prior to Aug 1. The US intends to impose a 36% reciprocal tariff on Thai goods, which could hinder the competitiveness of Thai products in the US market, especially when compared with rival nations such as Vietnam. Aat Pisanwanich, an analyst in international economics and advisor on Asean affairs at Intelligence Research Consultant, recently explored the implications of the policy, its potential impact, and outlined actions that Thailand ought to pursue moving forward. What are the main objectives of the US tariff measures? The primary goal of the American tariffs is to lower deficits with its trading partners. Last year, the US recorded a global trade deficit of US$1.2 trillion. Additionally, the government aims to boost its revenue from the elevated tariffs to make up for declines in corporate and personal income tax receipts. The revenue generated from these tariffs is expected to be dedicated to military spending and managing immigration under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (2025). For the 2025 fiscal year, US tariff revenue is projected to reach $100 billion, based on the implementation of universal tariffs at 10%. Should reciprocal tariffs be introduced on Aug 1, the US will gain even more in tariff revenue and could potentially lure investment back to the nation. What are the principles behind the US tariffs? The US has imposed new tariffs, commonly referred to as the "Trump Tariffs" on nearly all countries due to its significant and prolonged trade deficits. These tariffs fall into two main categories: Universal tariffs: Trump announced a baseline 10% universal tariff on all imports to the US, regardless of whether the US has a trade surplus or deficit with them. These tariffs came into effect on April 5. Reciprocal tariffs: Effective as of Aug 1. The tariffs are calculated based on trade data in 2024, using the following formula: Import Tariff Rate (%) = (US trade deficit with a country ÷ US imports from that country) × 100 ÷ 2 For example, the US trade deficit with Thailand in 2024 was $45 billion, while total US imports from Thailand were valued at $63 billion. By applying the formula (45 ÷ 63) × 100 = 71.4% ÷ 2 = 35.7%, the resulting tariff rate is approximately 36%. The US has also enacted product-specific tariffs as part of its trade policy. Under Section 232, which addresses national security, the Department of Commerce is empowered to impose tariffs aimed at protecting the nation's economic security. These include a 25% tariff on imports of steel, aluminium and auto parts. It plans to impose a 50% tariff on copper and a 200% tariff on pharmaceuticals. Under the Tariff Act 1930, the US has set some extraordinarily high tariffs, such as a tariff of over 3,000% on solar panels from Cambodia and a tariff above 300% on those from Thailand. The US administration has utilised Section 301 to impose tariffs on a wide range of Chinese goods. What are the reciprocal tariff rates the US plans to impose on imports? Starting Aug 1, along with a 10% universal tariff applied to all imports, the US will impose reciprocal tariffs on imported products from various countries, with the rate varying by nation. If no agreements are reached before the deadline, the tariff rates will come into effect (see accompanying graphic). Mr Aat outlined the implications of these reciprocal tariffs on exported goods. For instance, consider Product A from Thailand. Previously priced at $100, the cost in the US will rise to $136 after Aug 1. In contrast, Product A from Vietnam, also previously exported to the US at $100, will see an increase resulting in a final price of $120, or $16 less than the Thai product. Are any Thai industries expected to benefit from the US tariff policy? The imposition of a 36% reciprocal tariff is not expected to favour any Thai industries, and the impact will differ from sector to sector. Last year, the value of Thailand's total exports to the US reached about $63 billion, with 85% industrial goods and 15% agricultural products. About 30% of industrial exports are conducted by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), while larger exporters, both domestic and foreign, account for the remainder. Mr Aat said the most heavily impacted group would be Thai SMEs, due to the higher tariffs, heightened challenges in terms of competitiveness, and limited working capital. At the same time, they are also facing competition from an influx of Chinese products into the Thai market. Which industries will be negatively impacted? Mr Aat's assessment, based on Thailand's trade surplus value with the US last year, suggests several key industrial products are likely to be adversely affected by the new tariffs. These include communication and telecommunication equipment; computers and data processing systems; machinery parts; car tyres; electronic equipment and semiconductors; electric transformers and power supply equipment; motors and engines; rubber products; and electrical appliances. Additionally, agricultural products expected to be affected include rice and rice products; fresh and dried fruits; fruit and vegetable juices; and fresh and processed vegetables. How will Thai consumers be affected by the US tariff measures? According to Mr Aat, Thai consumers could experience a drop in income caused by a decline in exports, which would significantly slow down the economy. Although expenses may remain stable, the rising cost of living could become increasingly burdensome. There is also a high risk of job losses, business closures, and an increase in household debt. What actions should the government take to support affected industries? Mr Aat said the government must raise and allocate funds to stimulate the economy, as Thailand's economic growth could fall below 1% without such a stimulus, or might even face a contraction. Moreover, the government must provide support to farmers and affected SMEs, which could include tax exemptions, establishing compensation funds, exploring alternative markets, subsidising production costs, and offering low-interest loans. How are other countries assisting affected businesses and individuals? Mr Aat said Thailand should consider China's comprehensive measures, which include broad economic stimulus strategies, consumer support initiatives, the modernisation of manufacturing facilities through advanced technology, and fostering innovation via research funding. China is projected to allocate around $1 trillion to these efforts. Meanwhile, Indonesia has announced plans to distribute cash to low-income groups, along with a 30% discount on train fares, targeting about 18 million low-income individuals at a cost of around $1.3 billion.
Bangkok Post
3 days ago
- Bangkok Post
Retail association touts recovery strategies
The Thai Retailers Association has recommended two strategies to accelerate economic recovery amid the prolonged global economic slowdown and rising uncertainties. Nath Vongphanich, president of the association, said in the first half of the year the retail sector had been under pressure from all directions, including political uncertainty, subdued consumption, declining investment and external factors such as the slow recovery of international tourism. He added that the US's new tariff policy, which is currently imposing tariffs as high as 36% on Thai products, is a key concern. "Thailand must negotiate for lower rates, ideally on par with Asean peers such as Vietnam, Malaysia and Indonesia, to avoid adverse impacts on small businesses and preserve national competitiveness and employment," said Mr Nath. He said other external challenges, including the tensions in the Middle East and the Thai-Cambodian border spat, have also affected consumer confidence and overall economic sentiment. Mr Nath said the private sector is closely monitoring the government's rollout of effective economic policies and is calling for tangible recovery measures in the second half of the year. The association recommended two key strategies to support economic recovery during this critical period. The first strategy calls for targeted fiscal stimulus to reinvigorate spending nationwide. The initial 115 billion baht from the total budget of 157 billion baht should be swiftly implemented, with a focus on community-based projects, tourism and infrastructure. He said in tourism, urgent safety improvements are essential. An additional 40–50 billion baht in residual budget should be used to boost grassroots purchasing power and support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This support could include low-interest loan programmes. The association suggested relaunching the "Easy E-Receipt Phase 2" or "Shop Dee Mee Khuen" scheme between September and December to stimulate consumer spending during the peak holiday season. He suggested the programme be simplified to encourage broader participation, covering general goods, One Tambon One Product (Otop) products and eco-friendly items, with a spending cap of 100,000 baht. This could inject over 100 billion baht into the economy, Mr Nath estimated. He added that accelerating budget disbursement by Sept 30 is vital to promptly infuse funds into the economy while preparation of the 2026 budget bill must also stay on schedule to ensure seamless policy execution. The other key strategy is to position Thailand as a shopping destination to attract quality tourists. To achieve this goal, the association recommended an instant 7% value-added tax refund at the point of sale for international tourists with a minimum purchase of 3,000 baht. Other measures include reducing import duties on fashion, apparel, perfumes and cosmetics, which are currently taxed at 20–30%, to boost competitiveness against other countries in the region. The government should consider establishing tax-free zones in major tourist provinces such as Phuket to increase tourist spending and encourage repeat visits over the long term. The association also suggested launching a nationwide shopping festival to stimulate consumer spending and extending the duration of the visa-free period for Russian tourists from 30 to 45 days after the conclusion of the current programme. He said Russian visitors represent a high-spending, long-stay segment that significantly contributes to the tourism economy. The association also revealed the Retail Sentiment Index (RSI) for June, which hit a 42-month low. The index showed a persistent decline across all components and regions, including average spending per bill and spending frequency. Mr Nath said this downturn reflects the fragile state of domestic purchasing power, as both entrepreneurs and investors remain cautious and are delaying new investments, as they await clear and concrete government policies. The downward trend is expected to continue into the third quarter, underscoring the sluggish recovery of consumer purchasing power and cautious spending behaviour, he said.
