Thailand outlines a series of government policy priorities

On September 12, Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra delivered a speech to the country's National Assembly about the policy direction that the Pheu Thai Party-led government plans to implement before the next general election in three years.

The politician also expressed confidence that her government will bring hope, opportunity, and economic and social equality to the Thai people.

In a 60-minute speech, Prime Minister Paetongtarn identified nine challenges facing Thailand and outlined a series of policies that need to be implemented immediately, including: restructuring the entire debt system; reducing energy and other utility costs; formalizing informal businesses and the underground economy; and stimulating the economy through a “digital wallet” program.

At the same time, add value to agricultural products to increase farmers' revenue; promote tourism; crack down on crime and drug trafficking; increase support for small and medium enterprises and improve social welfare.

Prime Minister Paetongtarn also said the government has adopted medium- and long-term policies to increase Thailand's competitiveness in the global market, creating a foundation for future development.

These policies include promoting local intelligence and creative culture, enhancing the country’s “soft power”, promoting future industries, developing green, digital, healthcare markets, transforming the local auto industry from internal combustion engines to environmentally friendly forms, delivering major infrastructure projects and promoting gender equality.

She said that along with promoting economic and social development, the Thai Government will protect the environment and use natural resources sustainably.

Politically, Prime Minister Paetongtarn pledged to speed up the drafting of a new, more democratic Constitution, promote the rule of law, ensure transparency, and reform bureaucracy and the military.

Regarding the monarchy, she stated that the government will make public the activities of the Royal Family and projects sponsored by the Royal Family, so that people can better understand the role of the monarchy in Thai democracy.

Following Prime Minister Paetongtarn's speech was a debate between MPs, senators and cabinet ministers on the policies just presented.

The debate will take place on September 12-13.