Chinese embassy pledges cooperation in SAO building probe

The Chinese Embassy in Thailand issued a statement addressing media concerns regarding the involvement of China Railway No.10 Engineering Group in the construction of the Office of the Auditor-General (SAO) building, which tragically collapsed during the March 28 earthquake.
In a statement released late yesterday, April 1, the embassy expressed its commitment to fully cooperate with the Thai authorities and stressed its belief in a fair and transparent investigation.
The embassy acknowledged the devastating impact of the building’s collapse, which occurred last Friday, March 28, and extended heartfelt condolences to the victims and their families.
“In recent days, we have received numerous inquiries from the media regarding Chinese enterprises operating in Thailand,” the statement read.
The embassy reiterated that the Chinese government consistently instructs its companies abroad to comply with local laws, uphold social responsibility, and contribute positively to the communities in which they operate.
The Chinese government also expressed its support for Thailand’s rescue efforts, confirming that it had dispatched a team of earthquake rescue experts and volunteers to assist in the recovery operations. Additionally, Chinese companies in Thailand have provided large cranes and essential machinery to aid in the ongoing rescue mission.

The embassy reaffirmed its dedication to assisting Thai government officials as needed and urged China Railway No.10 Engineering Group to fully cooperate with the investigation into the collapse.
“We urge the relevant Chinese company to provide their full cooperation to the Thai government’s investigative process. We are confident that the Thai government’s investigation will produce a scientific and just conclusion.”
Interestingly, the embassy referred to China Railway No.10 as an “enterprise” rather than a “state-owned enterprise,” a subtle distinction that may suggest a difference in the company’s operational structure.
As the investigation continues, Thai and Chinese officials are working together to uncover the cause of the collapse, with the embassy assuring continued support for the ongoing efforts, reported The Nation.
The tragic incident has raised significant questions about safety standards and the role of foreign companies in critical infrastructure projects, making this investigation all the more crucial.