Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra
- Thailand News
PM Paetongtarn crowned Politician of the Year in Bangkok poll
Move over, rivals! Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has stormed ahead in the political popularity race, clinching the top spot in a nationwide survey that crowned her Politician of the Year 2024. The North Bangkok Poll, conducted by North Bangkok University between December 10 and 15, asked 1,500 respondents from across Thailand a simple but telling question: “Who do you think…
- Thailand News
Thaksin to become informal advisor to Malaysian PM for ASEAN
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced the appointment of former Thai premier Thaksin Shinawatra as an informal advisor for Malaysia’s chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) next year. The announcement was made by Ibrahim during a joint press conference with Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra in Putrajaya today, December 16. “I have agreed to appoint [Thaksin] as…
- Thailand News
Paetongtarn Shinawatra 29th on Forbes’ 2024 Power Women list
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has been named among Forbes Magazine’s 100 World’s Most Powerful Women 2024, securing the 29th position globally and ranking third in Asia. This prestigious recognition places her among influential figures such as Sandy Ran Xu, CEO of China’s JD.com, and Nirmala Sitharaman, India’s Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs, who hold the 27th and 28th positions,…
- Bangkok News
PM Paetongtarn’s absence sparks debate over invasive fish issue
Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s decision to skip the opening of the new House of Representatives session yesterday, December 12, sparked a contentious debate between the opposition and the ruling Pheu Thai Party. Nattacha Boonchaiinsawat, a Bangkok representative from the opposition People’s Party (PP), voiced his frustration, expressing a desire for the prime minister to address the public on efforts…
- Thailand News
Taxing times: Thai PM backtracks on VAT hike after public outcry
In a dramatic U-turn, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra pulled the plug on a proposal to crank up the value-added tax (VAT) following a storm of public outrage. The PM took to X (formerly Twitter) today, December 6, decisively posting: “No VAT adjustment to 15%.” This swift decision emerged from a huddle at Government House with Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira and…
- Bangkok News
PM: Ex-minister’s parole release unrelated to Yingluck’s return
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra firmly dismissed any links between the parole release of former commerce minister Boonsong Teriyapirom and the speculated return of ex-premier Yingluck Shinawatra. Addressing the media yesterday, PM Paetongtarn clarified that Boonsong’s release was strictly in accordance with the Department of Corrections (DoC) regulations and had no connection to her aunt, Yingluck. “It is about the DoC’s…
- Thailand News
Thailand grants citizenship to 72 stateless individuals in Chiang Rai
A historic moment unfolded in Chiang Rai as Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra presented Thai citizenship cards to 72 individuals from ethnic minority groups, marking a monumental step towards addressing statelessness in the country. The ceremony, held at the GMS International Convention and Exhibition Centre on Sunday, December 1, highlighted Thailand’s commitment to inclusivity and human rights, with key officials and…
- Thailand News
Paetongtarn faces backlash over flood crisis management failures
The recent devastating floods in southern Thailand have intensified pressure on Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s government, pushing the leader into the eye of a storm of criticism. With severe flooding wreaking havoc in the south, many are questioning her ability to manage a national crisis effectively. The prime minister, who initially struggled to establish her footing in the north, eventually…
- Thailand News
19 billion baht allocated for Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai flood repairs
Thailand’s government has allocated 19 billion baht for infrastructure and utility repairs in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, responding to the recent severe floods, according to Government Spokesperson Jirayu Houngsub. This announcement followed a Cabinet meeting conducted in Chiang Mai, where an economic and social development plan was approved, as proposed by the National Economic and Social Development Council. The…
- Thailand News
Old friends, new deals: Singapore PM makes visit to Thailand
In a historic first, Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong touched down in Thailand yesterday, November 28, to meet Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Marking his first official visit since taking office in May, Wong is the first foreign leader the 38 year old Thai PM has hosted, setting the stage for a high-stakes dialogue on diplomacy and development. The visit coincides…
- Thailand News
Thai PM and Energy Minister clash over clean energy vision
Tensions have erupted in Thailand’s government as Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Energy Minister Pirapan Salirathavibhaga lock horns over the nation’s clean energy future. A disagreement, which has reportedly been simmering for weeks, boiled over yesterday, November 26, leading to the abrupt cancellation of a joint press conference following a National Energy Policy Board meeting. While PM Paetongtarn addressed the…
- Thailand News
Thai PM urges action to curb violence against women and children
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra called on the public to actively support government initiatives aimed at curbing violence against children and women. This appeal is part of the government’s annual anti-violence campaign, coinciding with National Violence Elimination Against Children and Women Month. Thailand designated November for this cause in 1999, aligning with the United Nations’ International Day for the Elimination of…
- Bangkok News
Thai PM yet to unveil new stimulus to boost economic growth
After nearly three months in office, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is poised to influence Thailand’s economic growth through a series of new stimulus proposals. These measures aim to address various economic challenges and are anticipated to be unveiled shortly. The National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) recently projected Thailand’s GDP growth to be between 2.3% and 3.3% for 2025,…
- Thailand News
Trump and Thailand: PM Paetongtarn pledges to strengthen ties
In a historic phone call, Thailand’s youngest Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, reached out to congratulate US President-elect Donald Trump on his election victory, underscoring Thailand’s commitment to a robust alliance with Washington. The conversation, which took place at 9.50am today, November 19, as disclosed by government spokesperson Jirayu Huangsub, marks an early push to fortify diplomatic and economic ties between…
- Thailand News
Somchai tees off at Thai PM to settle Alpine Golf land dispute
In a blistering call to action, former senator Somchai Sawangkarn has once more urged Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to decisively tackle a fiery land dispute around Alpine Golf Course that’s been simmering for far too long. In his third open letter, Somchai implores the Thai premier to show true grit and integrity, insisting that the nation’s wellbeing is at stake.…
- Thailand News
Thailand backs free trade and green economy at APEC summit
Thailand is set to champion the establishment of a Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific (FTAAP) and is committed to supporting green economy initiatives and sustainable development. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra underscored these priorities during her participation in the APEC Economic Leaders’ Retreat, chaired by Peru President Dina Ercilia Boluarte Zegarra, before the conclusion of the 31st Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation…
- Thailand News
Trump’s win sparks PM Paetongtarn’s bold investor push
Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is seizing the momentum after Donald Trump’s election victory by calling for an ambitious strategy to attract foreign investors to Thailand. Speaking in Los Angeles yesterday, November 12, to Thai ambassadors, consul-generals, and key representatives of Team Thailand from across the Americas, the Thai premier urged diplomats to become a front-line force, promoting Thailand as…
- Politics News
PM on dual-purpose trip to US west coast and APEC summit
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra departed Bangkok yesterday for a diplomatic mission combining stops in Los Angeles and Lima, Peru. Accompanied by Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa and other officials, the delegation touched down in Los Angeles at 7.30pm local time, yesterday, November 10. The Thai premier’s Los Angeles agenda includes chairing a strategic meeting with diplomatic representatives from across the Americas…
- Thailand News
PM Paetongtarn launches ‘no gift policy’ to curb ISCOC corruption
Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has initiated a bold new measure with the introduction of the No Gift Policy for the Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC), aiming to prevent officers from accepting gifts in exchange for their services. PM Paetongtarn, acting as ISCOC director, has formalised this policy through a declaration of intent signed on October 30. The document sets…
- Thailand News
Thailand appetite for exports, food security at key China summits
Promoting Thailand’s exports and tackling food security issues have taken centre stage at two significant regional meetings in China, as declared by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra yesterday, November 6. The 38 year old Thai PM is participating in the 8th Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) Economic Cooperation Summit and the 10th Ayeyawady-Chao Phraya-Mekong Economic Cooperation Strategy (ACMECS) summit, both held in…
- Thailand News
PM Paetongtarn leads Suan Dusit’s political-index survey
A recent survey conducted by Suan Dusit University reveals that the Thai government’s performance ratings have improved in October compared to September, with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra emerging as the most popular coalition politician. The Suan Dusit Poll, which surveyed 2,136 people across Thailand from October 25 to 30, asked participants to evaluate both government and opposition performance across 25…
- Thailand News
Thailand launches anti-drug campaign in 10 pilot provinces
Thailand is taking decisive action against drug-related issues by designating 10 provinces as pilot areas to test new strategies. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra emphasised the broader societal impacts of drug problems during her visit to Roi Et, highlighting the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to tackle this challenge. Drug problems are seen as a significant barrier to national progress…
- Politics News
PM Paetongtarn’s political shrug: Dodging EC probe bombshell
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra shrugged off the Election Commission’s (EC) bombshell probe into allegations that could see her Pheu Thai Party and five political allies dissolved. Accusations are flying that the parties let an outsider pull the strings, and that outsider is none other than former PM, and Paetongtarn’s kin, Thaksin Shinawatra. The drama kicked off when key figures from…
- Thailand News
Thailand unveils 110 billion baht economic recovery plan
Thailand’s government rolled out a comprehensive economic recovery initiative, aiming to inject up to 110 billion baht into the economy by supporting small businesses through collaborations with major corporations. This campaign, running from September to January, encompasses three main strategies: reducing expenses, generating income, and creating opportunities. The focus is primarily on small operators, who constitute 90% of the country’s…
- Thailand News
PM Paetongtarn under fire for media freedom feud
Prolific petitioner Ruangkrai Leekitwattana has once again targeted Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra with a fresh complaint, charging her with an alleged assault on media freedom—a move he claims could topple her from power. Today, October 15, Ruangkrai announced that he’s officially lodged a request with the Election Commission (EC), urging a probe into PM Paetongtarn’s supposedly controversial chat with a…
- Thailand News
Thai PM urges unity at ASEAN Summit to tackle climate change
Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra attended the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits at the National Convention Centre in Laos at 9.30am yesterday, October 9. Upon arrival, the Thai premier received a warm welcome from Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone and his wife. PM Paetongtarn addressed the assembly, underscoring the need for Collective Leadership within ASEAN to tackle regional issues and…
- Thailand News
Thailand and Laos combat drug smuggling and online scams
Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra engaged in a pivotal meeting with her Lao counterpart to address pressing cross-border issues, including drug smuggling, human trafficking, and the alarming surge in online fraud. During the ASEAN Summit in Vientiane, the Thai premier, accompanied by Foreign Affairs Minister Maris Sangiampongsa, Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan, and PM’s secretary-general Prommin Lertsuridej, met with Sonexay Siphandone…
- Thailand News
New PM office spokesperson announced at Government House
In a whirlwind Cabinet reshuffle, the Government of Thailand is shaking up key roles, including naming a new spokesperson for the Prime Minister’s Office and promoting the deputy secretary-general of the National Security Council (NSC) to council chief. It’s all part of the latest wave of power moves under PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Announcing the changes at a press briefing today,…
- Thailand News
Paetongtarn defends iPad use at Qatar summit amid criticism
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra addressed criticisms after a photograph of her reading from an iPad at her first international summit in Qatar circulated on social media. The image, taken last week, raised questions about the 38 year old’s leadership abilities. Responding on Instagram, Paetongtarn addressed a netizen who posted the photos and described them as embarrassing for Thailand. The netizen…
- Thailand News
Bangkok safe from floods despite heavy rain, says PM
Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra assured the public that Bangkok will remain safe from flooding, noting that the current rainfall levels are significantly lower than those experienced during the devastating floods of 2011. The Thai premier reviewed the water situation yesterday, October 2, at the Royal Irrigation Department (RID) in Pak Kret district, Nonthaburi. She highlighted that while Thailand was…
