<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-to-visit-hiroshima-nagasaki-on-anti-nuclear-weapon-mission-262797">Pope&nbsp;Francis&nbsp;</a>arrived in&nbsp;Thailand&nbsp;on Wednesday to meet with the country's small but devoted Catholic minority on a seven-day&nbsp;Asian&nbsp;trip&nbsp;that will include a family reunion in Bangkok and take his anti-nuclear message to Japan.

The&nbsp;pope's plane touched down outside Bangkok around midday for a visit that coincides with the 350th anniversary of the first papal mission in Siam, the former name of&nbsp;Thailand.

"Dear friends in&nbsp;Thailand&nbsp;and Japan, before we meet, let us pray together that these days may be rich in grace and joy," read a message on the pontiff's official Twitter account before he left the Vatican.

Catholics are a tiny minority in mostly Buddhist&nbsp;Thailand, accounting for less than 2 per cent of the population.

Pope&nbsp;Francis&nbsp;will meet <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thai-king-strips-disloyal-new-royal-consort-of-titles-257474">King Maha Vajiralongkorn,</a> as well as the supreme Buddhist patriarch and Catholic leaders and students before he moves on to Japan on Saturday.

His translator in&nbsp;Thailand&nbsp;will be his cousin and childhood friend, Sister Ana Rosa Sivori, 77, who has worked in Thai schools for more than 50 years.

Pope Francis arrived in Thailand on Wednesday to meet with the country's small but devoted Catholic minority on a seven-day Asian trip that will include a family reunion in Bangkok and take his anti-nuclear message to Japan.

Pope Francis arrived in Thailand on Wednesday to meet with the country's small but devoted Catholic minority on a seven-day Asian trip that will include a family reunion in Bangkok and take his anti-nuclear message to Japan. The pope's plane touched down outside Bangkok around midday for a visit that coincides with the 350th anniversary of the first papal mission in Siam, the former name of Thailand. "Dear friends in Thailand and Japan, before we meet, let us pray together that these days may be rich in grace and joy," read a message on the pontiff's official Twitter account before he left the Vatican. Catholics are a tiny minority in mostly Buddhist Thailand, accounting for less than 2 per cent of the population. Pope Francis will meet King Maha Vajiralongkorn, as well as the supreme Buddhist patriarch and Catholic leaders and students before he moves on to Japan on Saturday. His translator in Thailand will be his cousin and childhood friend, Sister Ana Rosa Sivori, 77, who has worked in Thai schools for more than 50 years.

Pope Francis arrives in Thailand at start of Asia trip

The Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held a bilateral meeting with the United States Secretary of Defence, Mark Esper on the sidelines of the Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN) Defence Ministers' Meeting Plus (ADMM Plus) on Sunday.

Singh, who arrived in Bangkok on Friday with a delegation, was received by Air Chief marshal Chewchan Ruddit, Special Advisor to the office of the Permanent Secretary for Defense, MoD Thailand.

"The defence cooperation between ASEAN and India has its own importance. I want to appreciate Thailand for hosting and chairing this summit. I am sure that we will be having a very fruitful discussion and it will be beneficial for all the ASEAN member countries", Singh said in Bangkok.

Additionally, he expressed the desire to talk about sustainable security.&nbsp; 
 
"Security can only be successful if it is sustainable," the minister added.

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The delegation also plans to address concerns regarding terrorism, disaster management, and coastal security. According to Singh, cooperation with ASEAN is key to the success of India's Act East policy.

"The summit will also help in building strategic trust between the leaders of the Asia Pacific through proper communication. Also, cooperation between the militaries of the ASEAN member countries will be strengthened," Singh added.

Besides attending bilateral meetings, Singh is expected to inaugurate the India pavilion at the Defence and Security Exhibition in Bangkok, where he will also address the business seminar and interact with industry representatives.&nbsp;

ADMM Plus' key agenda includes unveiling the Handbook on Military Medicine for ASEAN, which will be released by Singh alongside the Defence Minister of Myanmar.

In addition, Singh will also speak to the Prime Minister of Thailand Prayut Chan-o-cha during the visit.

(With inputs from ANI)

The Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held a bilateral meeting with the United States Secretary of Defence, Mark Esper on the sidelines of the Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN) Defence Ministers' Meeting Plus (ADMM Plus) on Sunday.

The Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held a bilateral meeting with the United States Secretary of Defence, Mark Esper on the sidelines of the Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN) Defence Ministers' Meeting Plus (ADMM Plus) on Sunday. Singh, who arrived in Bangkok on Friday with a delegation, was received by Air Chief marshal Chewchan Ruddit, Special Advisor to the office of the Permanent Secretary for Defense, MoD Thailand. "The defence cooperation between ASEAN and India has its own importance. I want to appreciate Thailand for hosting and chairing this summit. I am sure that we will be having a very fruitful discussion and it will be beneficial for all the ASEAN member countries", Singh said in Bangkok. Additionally, he expressed the desire to talk about sustainable security. "Security can only be successful if it is sustainable," the minister added. Thailand: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and US Secretary of Defence Mark Esper held a bilateral meeting in Bangkok today. pic.twitter.com/PwVhMdDCTf — ANI (@ANI) November 17, 2019 × The delegation also plans to address concerns regarding terrorism, disaster management, and coastal security. According to Singh, cooperation with ASEAN is key to the success of India's Act East policy. "The summit will also help in building strategic trust between the leaders of the Asia Pacific through proper communication. Also, cooperation between the militaries of the ASEAN member countries will be strengthened," Singh added. Besides attending bilateral meetings, Singh is expected to inaugurate the India pavilion at the Defence and Security Exhibition in Bangkok, where he will also address the business seminar and interact with industry representatives. ADMM Plus' key agenda includes unveiling the Handbook on Military Medicine for ASEAN, which will be released by Singh alongside the Defence Minister of Myanmar. In addition, Singh will also speak to the Prime Minister of Thailand Prayut Chan-o-cha during the visit. (With inputs from ANI)

Rajnath Singh meets Mark Esper on the sidelines of ADMM Plus meeting in Bangkok

Northeast India is being developed as a gateway to Southeast Asia under Central government's Act East Policy (AEP), <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-thailand-share-deep-ties-pm-modi-at-swasdee-modi-event-in-bangkok-259535">Prime Minister Narendra Modi said</a> on Saturday, and added that the plans are on cards to establish seamless connectivity between Thailand, Myanmar and northeast India in the years to come.

"Our focus is to connect India's northeast with Thailand. northeast is being developed as a gateway to south-east Asia. This initiative will immensely strengthen India's act east policy and Thailand's Act West Policy," Modi said in his address at the 'Sawasdee PM Modi'&nbsp;event.

Recounting his government's achievements in the past 5 years, Modi said that as many as eight crore homes in India were provided free LPG connections in just three years.

"This number is bigger than Thailand's entire population." Modi said that India announced itself open-defecation free on Mahatma Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary, adding that his government is willing to take up challenges which were once considered insurmountable.

"In the last 5 years, we have connected every Indian to a bank account and provided electricity. We are working to provide water to every family. By 2022, when India celebrates 75 years of independence, we are working to ensure a house for every poor person in India," Modi said.

The Prime Minister's reference to the Centre's move to abrogate Article 370 of the Constitution received a standing ovation from the crowd gathered at the event.

"India has taken a massive decision to free itself from separatism and terrorism," the prime minister said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

He said that the transformation in India is the reason that his government got a bigger mandate in the 2019 general elections.

Talking about the close ties between India and Thailand, the Prime Minister said that no single government can be credited with the strong relationship between the two countries. 
&nbsp;

Northeast India is being developed as a gateway to Southeast Asia under Central government's Act East Policy (AEP), Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Saturday, and added that the plans are on cards to establish seamless connectivity between Thailand, Myanmar and northeast India in the years to come.

Northeast India is being developed as a gateway to Southeast Asia under Central government's Act East Policy (AEP), Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Saturday, and added that the plans are on cards to establish seamless connectivity between Thailand, Myanmar and northeast India in the years to come. "Our focus is to connect India's northeast with Thailand. northeast is being developed as a gateway to south-east Asia. This initiative will immensely strengthen India's act east policy and Thailand's Act West Policy," Modi said in his address at the 'Sawasdee PM Modi' event. Recounting his government's achievements in the past 5 years, Modi said that as many as eight crore homes in India were provided free LPG connections in just three years. "This number is bigger than Thailand's entire population." Modi said that India announced itself open-defecation free on Mahatma Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary, adding that his government is willing to take up challenges which were once considered insurmountable. "In the last 5 years, we have connected every Indian to a bank account and provided electricity. We are working to provide water to every family. By 2022, when India celebrates 75 years of independence, we are working to ensure a house for every poor person in India," Modi said. The Prime Minister's reference to the Centre's move to abrogate Article 370 of the Constitution received a standing ovation from the crowd gathered at the event. "India has taken a massive decision to free itself from separatism and terrorism," the prime minister said. He said that the transformation in India is the reason that his government got a bigger mandate in the 2019 general elections. Talking about the close ties between India and Thailand, the Prime Minister said that no single government can be credited with the strong relationship between the two countries.

Northeast India will be a gateway to Southeast Asia: PM Modi in Bangkok

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday addressed the Indian diaspora in the capital city of Thailand, Bangkok.&nbsp;

The prime minister said that he didn't feel as if he is in a foreign land. "The ambience, the attire, everything here makes me feel at home," PM Modi said.&nbsp;

"Can feel India's essence everywhere in Thailand," he said.

Modi said that India and Thailand have deep ties based on culture, faith and friendship. "It isn't just a bond between two governments," he said.

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"No single government can be credited for this relation. Every moment shared between the two countries in the past has built and strengthened this relation," PM Modi said.

The prime minister said that he is proud how Indians "assimilate in other countries".

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PM Narendra Modi at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SawasdeePMModi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SawasdeePMModi</a> event in Bangkok, Thailand: To address the Indian community at this event, I am in Thailand, among you all today. But I don't feel that I am in a foreign land. The ambiance, the attire, everything here makes me feel at home. <a href="https://t.co/Rkd6GGjef1">pic.twitter.com/Rkd6GGjef1</a>
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"The affinity the royal family of Thailand has for India symbolizes our deep friendly and historical relations. Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn is an expert in Sanskrit language and has a deep interest in Indian the culture," he said.

PM Modi said that India and Thailand are very close to each not just on the basis of language but also because of the sentiments.&nbsp;

"The term 'Sawasdee Modi' has a connection with the Sanskrit word 'Swasti' which means welfare," he said.&nbsp;

PM Modi also released a commemorative coin on 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev ji.&nbsp;

PM Modi embarked on a three-day visit to Thailand on Saturday morning to participate in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), East Asia, and Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) summits.&nbsp;This is his first official visit to the country.&nbsp;

On November 3, Modi will co-chair the 16th ASEAN-India summit with Thailand Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, on whose invitation he is visiting the country.

&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday addressed the Indian diaspora in the capital city of Thailand, Bangkok. The prime minister said that he didn't feel as if he is in a foreign land.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday addressed the Indian diaspora in the capital city of Thailand, Bangkok. The prime minister said that he didn't feel as if he is in a foreign land. "The ambience, the attire, everything here makes me feel at home," PM Modi said. "Can feel India's essence everywhere in Thailand," he said. Modi said that India and Thailand have deep ties based on culture, faith and friendship. "It isn't just a bond between two governments," he said. #WATCH Thailand: PM Modi at #SawasdeePMModi event in Bangkok says, "We (India & Thailand) are very close to each other not only on the basis of language but also the sentiments. You told me 'Sawasdee Modi', this has connection with the Sanskrit word 'Swasti' which means welfare" pic.twitter.com/ld5zmZusOC — ANI (@ANI) November 2, 2019 × "No single government can be credited for this relation. Every moment shared between the two countries in the past has built and strengthened this relation," PM Modi said. The prime minister said that he is proud how Indians "assimilate in other countries". PM Narendra Modi at #SawasdeePMModi event in Bangkok, Thailand: To address the Indian community at this event, I am in Thailand, among you all today. But I don't feel that I am in a foreign land. The ambiance, the attire, everything here makes me feel at home. pic.twitter.com/Rkd6GGjef1 — ANI (@ANI) November 2, 2019 × "The affinity the royal family of Thailand has for India symbolizes our deep friendly and historical relations. Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn is an expert in Sanskrit language and has a deep interest in Indian the culture," he said. PM Modi said that India and Thailand are very close to each not just on the basis of language but also because of the sentiments. "The term 'Sawasdee Modi' has a connection with the Sanskrit word 'Swasti' which means welfare," he said. PM Modi also released a commemorative coin on 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev ji. PM Modi embarked on a three-day visit to Thailand on Saturday morning to participate in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), East Asia, and Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) summits. This is his first official visit to the country. On November 3, Modi will co-chair the 16th ASEAN-India summit with Thailand Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, on whose invitation he is visiting the country.

India, Thailand share deep ties: PM Modi at 'Swasdee Modi' event in Bangkok

A Laos activist is feared to miss in Thailand, rights groups said Friday, calling for an urgent investigation into his whereabouts after a rash of similar disappearances of dissidents in Southeast Asia.

Pro-democracy campaigner Od Sayavong was last seen nearly two weeks ago in Bangkok, where he had been living as he sought resettlement to a third country by the UN refugee agency, rights groups said.&nbsp;

He had been registered as a "person of concern" by the UNHCR in 2017 because of activism focused on Laos, a one-party communist state with little tolerance for dissent.

Od had campaigned for democracy and lobbied for the right of migrant workers from Laos, according to a joint statement from the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) and the Lao Movement for Human Rights (LMHR).

The statement suggested Thai authorities may have handed Od back to Laos, sparking fears he could be "the latest casualty of increased cooperation between the government of Thailand and its regional counterparts".

Thailand and its neighbours have been accused of swapping exiled dissidents in recent years as tolerance for political activism shrivels across Southeast Asia.

The UNHCR did not immediately respond to requests for comment on Od's case, while an officer at the police station near his home said no migrants had been arrested there in the past month.

His disappearance follows a spate of similar cases in recent years.

Five Thai activists have disappeared from their homes in Laos since 2016, and in December two of their corpses were found in the Mekong river in Thailand.

Their stomachs had been stuffed with concrete.

Rights groups believe three others have been deported from Vietnam to Thailand although both governments deny any knowledge of their whereabouts.

A Thai activist folk band who went into hiding in Laos also fled to France to apply for asylum.

And a Vietnamese political blogger who vanished in Thailand earlier this year turned up in a Hanoi jail in March.

Defence ministry spokesperson Kongcheep Tantravanich denied knowledge of Od's case and said Thailand does not have a policy to "suppress political refugees" from other countries.

A Laos activist is feared to miss in Thailand, rights groups said Friday, calling for an urgent investigation into his whereabouts after a rash of similar disappearances of dissidents in Southeast Asia.

A Laos activist is feared to miss in Thailand, rights groups said Friday, calling for an urgent investigation into his whereabouts after a rash of similar disappearances of dissidents in Southeast Asia. Pro-democracy campaigner Od Sayavong was last seen nearly two weeks ago in Bangkok, where he had been living as he sought resettlement to a third country by the UN refugee agency, rights groups said. He had been registered as a "person of concern" by the UNHCR in 2017 because of activism focused on Laos, a one-party communist state with little tolerance for dissent. Od had campaigned for democracy and lobbied for the right of migrant workers from Laos, according to a joint statement from the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) and the Lao Movement for Human Rights (LMHR). The statement suggested Thai authorities may have handed Od back to Laos, sparking fears he could be "the latest casualty of increased cooperation between the government of Thailand and its regional counterparts". Thailand and its neighbours have been accused of swapping exiled dissidents in recent years as tolerance for political activism shrivels across Southeast Asia. The UNHCR did not immediately respond to requests for comment on Od's case, while an officer at the police station near his home said no migrants had been arrested there in the past month. His disappearance follows a spate of similar cases in recent years. Five Thai activists have disappeared from their homes in Laos since 2016, and in December two of their corpses were found in the Mekong river in Thailand. Their stomachs had been stuffed with concrete. Rights groups believe three others have been deported from Vietnam to Thailand although both governments deny any knowledge of their whereabouts. A Thai activist folk band who went into hiding in Laos also fled to France to apply for asylum. And a Vietnamese political blogger who vanished in Thailand earlier this year turned up in a Hanoi jail in March. Defence ministry spokesperson Kongcheep Tantravanich denied knowledge of Od's case and said Thailand does not have a policy to "suppress political refugees" from other countries.

Laos activist feared missing in Thailand: Rights groups

Sinking city: Indonesia's capital on the brink of disaster

Thai security forces are hunting more than 10 suspects in connection with<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bombs-rattle-bangkok-during-asean-summit-two-suspects-held-240189"> a series of bomb attacks in Bangkok</a> last week, Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-Ocha said on Monday.

Six bombs exploded in the Thai capital on Friday as the city`s hosted a meeting of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-has-taken-advantage-of-trade-time-for-it-to-stop-pompeo-at-foreign-ministers-meeting-in-bangkok-240069">Southeast Asian foreign ministers</a>, which was also attended by top diplomats from the United States, China, and other world powers.

Authorities now say that six other firebombs also went off on Friday in central Bangkok, including two that caused fires an in shopping malls in a central shopping district popular with tourists.

On Saturday, three more bombs also went off at three ATM machines in southern Pattani province on Saturday, no one was hurt or claimed responsibility for the attack.

"There are more than 10 people involved that need to be arrested, charged, and investigated for the cause (of the attack)," Prayuth said.

"We could not say at the moment who is behind the attack but they are heartless and mean with the aim to create chaos for the country at a time when things are proceeding under a democratic government," he said.

Two men have been detained since Friday, accused of planting two bombs, which authorities earlier had said were fake, in front of the police headquarters in central Bangkok a day earlier.

The two suspects are from Narathiwat, one of the largely Malay-Muslim provinces in Thailand`s deep south where more than a decade long insurgency has left nearly 7,000 people dead since 2004.&nbsp;

They are being held in Yala, another southern province.

The violence has largely been confined to that region, although Muslim militants have been blamed for bomb attacks in the capital in the past.

Reuters could not immediately reach the two suspects or their lawyers for comment. No group has claimed responsibility for the attacks.

No group has claimed responsibility for the attacks.

Thai security forces are hunting more than 10 suspects in connection with a series of bomb attacks in Bangkok last week, Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-Ocha said on Monday.

Thai security forces are hunting more than 10 suspects in connection with a series of bomb attacks in Bangkok last week, Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-Ocha said on Monday. Six bombs exploded in the Thai capital on Friday as the city`s hosted a meeting of Southeast Asian foreign ministers, which was also attended by top diplomats from the United States, China, and other world powers. Authorities now say that six other firebombs also went off on Friday in central Bangkok, including two that caused fires an in shopping malls in a central shopping district popular with tourists. On Saturday, three more bombs also went off at three ATM machines in southern Pattani province on Saturday, no one was hurt or claimed responsibility for the attack. "There are more than 10 people involved that need to be arrested, charged, and investigated for the cause (of the attack)," Prayuth said. "We could not say at the moment who is behind the attack but they are heartless and mean with the aim to create chaos for the country at a time when things are proceeding under a democratic government," he said. Two men have been detained since Friday, accused of planting two bombs, which authorities earlier had said were fake, in front of the police headquarters in central Bangkok a day earlier. The two suspects are from Narathiwat, one of the largely Malay-Muslim provinces in Thailand`s deep south where more than a decade long insurgency has left nearly 7,000 people dead since 2004. They are being held in Yala, another southern province. The violence has largely been confined to that region, although Muslim militants have been blamed for bomb attacks in the capital in the past. Reuters could not immediately reach the two suspects or their lawyers for comment. No group has claimed responsibility for the attacks. No group has claimed responsibility for the attacks.

Thailand seeks more than 10 suspects for a series of bombs in Bangkok

Footage emerged Saturday of the moment a bomb exploded in a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-fake-bombs-found-near-bangkok-forum-of-world-powers-police-240006">Bangkok</a> mall as the city hosted a major summit, the device hidden inside a cuddly toy animal.

There were nine successful or attempted bomb blasts on Friday throughout Bangkok which left four wounded as the city hosted a regional summit attended by top diplomats, including US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

Footage showed an explosion in a shopping mall minutes from the summit venue in the early hours of Friday morning, after it was planted by a man dressed in a student's uniform about 12 hours earlier.

The man, wearing a fedora and face mask, entered a store in Siam Square mall at around 3:30 pm on Thursday, according to time stamps on the footage obtained by AFP.

Milling around the store, he stopped at a shelf full of cuddly toy seals and polar bears and fiddled with one of them for a few seconds before placing it back on the shelf.

The next video recordings showed an explosion in the store originating from the shelf around 4:45 am on Friday, which caused a fire and a swirl of smoke as the store's sprinkler system was activated.

No one was injured and police confirmed the bomb blast.

"The staff from the ... the store filed a complaint with the police about the blast yesterday," Colonel Thammanoon Boonruang told AFP Saturday, declining to comment on whether it was one of the nine explosions authorities confirmed.

The store remained closed on Saturday.

Speculation swirled in Thailand about the motive behind the bombings, with many linking them to retaliation from the insurgency hit south for the recent arrest of a rebel suspect who was left in a coma after arriving at a notorious army camp.

A preliminary army led probe showed that Abdulloh Esormusor, 34, could have been suffocated.

Thailand has a grim history of political violence and remains deeply divided after a controversial March election which returned junta chief Prayut Chan-O-Cha to power as a civilian premier.&nbsp;

Its three southernmost provinces bordering <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-malaysia-restart-massive-belt-and-road-project-after-hiccups-238327">Malaysia</a>, which are predominantly Muslim-Malay, are also in a grip of a 15 year conflict, where a shadowy rebel group has agitated for more autonomy outside of the Buddhist majority Thai state.

So far, two men linked to the conflict hit region were arrested hours after wires and ball bearings were found in an inactive device outside Thai police headquarters late Thursday.

But police said it was "too early" to clearly tie them to the rebellion.

Footage emerged Saturday of the moment a bomb exploded in a Bangkok mall as the city hosted a major summit, the device hidden inside a cuddly toy animal. There were nine successful or attempted bomb blasts on Friday throughout Bangkok which left four wounded as the city hosted a regional summit attended by top diplomats, including US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

Footage emerged Saturday of the moment a bomb exploded in a Bangkok mall as the city hosted a major summit, the device hidden inside a cuddly toy animal. There were nine successful or attempted bomb blasts on Friday throughout Bangkok which left four wounded as the city hosted a regional summit attended by top diplomats, including US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Footage showed an explosion in a shopping mall minutes from the summit venue in the early hours of Friday morning, after it was planted by a man dressed in a student's uniform about 12 hours earlier. The man, wearing a fedora and face mask, entered a store in Siam Square mall at around 3:30 pm on Thursday, according to time stamps on the footage obtained by AFP. Milling around the store, he stopped at a shelf full of cuddly toy seals and polar bears and fiddled with one of them for a few seconds before placing it back on the shelf. The next video recordings showed an explosion in the store originating from the shelf around 4:45 am on Friday, which caused a fire and a swirl of smoke as the store's sprinkler system was activated. No one was injured and police confirmed the bomb blast. "The staff from the ... the store filed a complaint with the police about the blast yesterday," Colonel Thammanoon Boonruang told AFP Saturday, declining to comment on whether it was one of the nine explosions authorities confirmed. The store remained closed on Saturday. Speculation swirled in Thailand about the motive behind the bombings, with many linking them to retaliation from the insurgency hit south for the recent arrest of a rebel suspect who was left in a coma after arriving at a notorious army camp. A preliminary army led probe showed that Abdulloh Esormusor, 34, could have been suffocated. Thailand has a grim history of political violence and remains deeply divided after a controversial March election which returned junta chief Prayut Chan-O-Cha to power as a civilian premier. Its three southernmost provinces bordering Malaysia, which are predominantly Muslim-Malay, are also in a grip of a 15 year conflict, where a shadowy rebel group has agitated for more autonomy outside of the Buddhist majority Thai state. So far, two men linked to the conflict hit region were arrested hours after wires and ball bearings were found in an inactive device outside Thai police headquarters late Thursday. But police said it was "too early" to clearly tie them to the rebellion.

Footage shows Bangkok bombing in mall minutes from ASEAN summit

India's External Affairs Minister (EAM) S&nbsp;Jaishankar&nbsp;met&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-has-taken-advantage-of-trade-time-for-it-to-stop-pompeo-at-foreign-ministers-meeting-in-bangkok-240069">US secretary of state&nbsp;Mike&nbsp;Pompeo</a>&nbsp;on the sidelines of 9th East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers' meet in Bangkok, Thailand, on Friday.

No readouts have been issued by New Delhi and Washington but both sides are expected to have&nbsp;discussed issues of concerns like trade and convergences like Indo-Pacific.

The meet comes even as US President raked up Kashmir for the second time saying, "It’s really up to Prime Minister Modi (to accept the offer of mediation)."

Trump in response to a question said, "I think they are fantastic people - Khan and Modi - I mean. I would imagine they could get along very well, but if they wanted somebody to intervene, to help them. And I spoke with Pakistan about that and I spoke frankly in India about it."

Adding, "If I can, if they wanted me to, I would certainly intervene."

Ten days&nbsp;ago&nbsp;US President Donald Trump, while sitting next to Pakistani PM Imran Khan said PM Modi had called for mediation on Kashmir&nbsp;during Trump-Modi bilateral on the sidelines of Osaka G20 summit.

This was dismissed by the Indian side with EAM Jaishankar speaking in the Parliament saying all bilateral issues between India and Pakistan are governed by Shimla and Lahore agreements under which no third&nbsp;party mediation will be allowed.&nbsp;

Jaishankar is in Bangkok for the two-day summit (August 1 and 2) to&nbsp;participate in a number of ASEAN plus gatherings. Earlier on Friday, he&nbsp;participated at&nbsp;the&nbsp;9th East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers'&nbsp;Meeting (EAS FMM) and will later participate at the 26th ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF).

The external affairs minister on the first day of his visit addressed&nbsp;ASEAN-India Ministerial Meeting and&nbsp;10th Mekong Ganga Cooperation (MGC) Ministerial Meeting and met ten&nbsp;of his counterparts.&nbsp;

These were&nbsp;Thai FM Don Pramudwinai, New Zealand FM Winston Peters,&nbsp;High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy&nbsp; Federica Mogherini, Japan FM Taro Kono, Filipino Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr, Indonesian FM Retno Marsudi, British FS Dominic Raab,&nbsp;Singapore's FM Vivian Balakrishnan,&nbsp;&nbsp;Foreign Minister of Australia Marise Payne and&nbsp;Chinese FM Wang Yi.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Jaishankar will be going&nbsp;to China later this month for a&nbsp;preparatory visit for the 2nd India-China informal summit that will happen by the end of this year.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

India's External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar met US secretary of state Mike Pompeo on the sidelines of 9th East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers' meet in Bangkok, Thailand, on Friday.

India's External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar met US secretary of state Mike Pompeo on the sidelines of 9th East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers' meet in Bangkok, Thailand, on Friday. No readouts have been issued by New Delhi and Washington but both sides are expected to have discussed issues of concerns like trade and convergences like Indo-Pacific. The meet comes even as US President raked up Kashmir for the second time saying, "It’s really up to Prime Minister Modi (to accept the offer of mediation)." Trump in response to a question said, "I think they are fantastic people - Khan and Modi - I mean. I would imagine they could get along very well, but if they wanted somebody to intervene, to help them. And I spoke with Pakistan about that and I spoke frankly in India about it." Adding, "If I can, if they wanted me to, I would certainly intervene." Ten days ago US President Donald Trump, while sitting next to Pakistani PM Imran Khan said PM Modi had called for mediation on Kashmir during Trump-Modi bilateral on the sidelines of Osaka G20 summit. This was dismissed by the Indian side with EAM Jaishankar speaking in the Parliament saying all bilateral issues between India and Pakistan are governed by Shimla and Lahore agreements under which no third party mediation will be allowed. Jaishankar is in Bangkok for the two-day summit (August 1 and 2) to participate in a number of ASEAN plus gatherings. Earlier on Friday, he participated at the 9th East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers' Meeting (EAS FMM) and will later participate at the 26th ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF). The external affairs minister on the first day of his visit addressed ASEAN-India Ministerial Meeting and 10th Mekong Ganga Cooperation (MGC) Ministerial Meeting and met ten of his counterparts. These were Thai FM Don Pramudwinai, New Zealand FM Winston Peters, High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Federica Mogherini, Japan FM Taro Kono, Filipino Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr, Indonesian FM Retno Marsudi, British FS Dominic Raab, Singapore's FM Vivian Balakrishnan, Foreign Minister of Australia Marise Payne and Chinese FM Wang Yi. Jaishankar will be going to China later this month for a preparatory visit for the 2nd India-China informal summit that will happen by the end of this year.

India's foreign minister S Jaishankar meets Pompeo at ASEAN ministerial meet in Bangkok

Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar is likely to have a pull-aside with US Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, on the sidelines of 9th East Asia Summit, Foreign Ministers meet in Bangkok. Watch this video to know more.

First India-US meet after Trump's Kashmir remark

Thai police said they found two fake bombs on Thursday near the venue of a regional security meeting in Bangkok of world powers and members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) grouping.

The packages prompted a brief security scare but were quickly deemed harmless.

"There were two boxes that contain no material that could cause an explosion. There are ball bearings and wire circuits, which is likely to cause alarm," police deputy spokesman Krisana Pattanacharoen told Reuters.

He said security around the ASEAN forum had been tightened but it was unclear whether the meeting was the apparent hoax's target. China's top diplomat Wang Yi and U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo are attending the forum along with other regional and global officials.

Police Major General Tawatchai Mekprasertkul told Reuters the packages were placed across the street from the forum venue, near a police station where Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha was due to visit on Friday.

Krisana said security cameras had shown a man wearing a yellow shirt placing the packages and police were trying to identify the suspect.

Thai police said they found two fake bombs on Thursday near the venue of a regional security meeting in Bangkok of world powers and members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) grouping.

Thai police said they found two fake bombs on Thursday near the venue of a regional security meeting in Bangkok of world powers and members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) grouping. The packages prompted a brief security scare but were quickly deemed harmless. "There were two boxes that contain no material that could cause an explosion. There are ball bearings and wire circuits, which is likely to cause alarm," police deputy spokesman Krisana Pattanacharoen told Reuters. He said security around the ASEAN forum had been tightened but it was unclear whether the meeting was the apparent hoax's target. China's top diplomat Wang Yi and U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo are attending the forum along with other regional and global officials. Police Major General Tawatchai Mekprasertkul told Reuters the packages were placed across the street from the forum venue, near a police station where Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha was due to visit on Friday. Krisana said security cameras had shown a man wearing a yellow shirt placing the packages and police were trying to identify the suspect.

Two fake bombs found near Bangkok forum of world powers: Police

Australia pledged US $55 million to fight human trafficking in Southeast Asia on Thursday, vowing to tackle "modern slavery" ensnaring vulnerable populations across the region, from low-paid workers to underage brides and Rohingya refugees.

The funding is part of a 10-year scheme that includes training for police and judges to probe criminal networks, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-planning-additional-military-infrastructure-in-australia-foreign-minister-marise-payne-239432">Australia's foreign affairs minister Marise Payne</a> said at an Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) meeting in Bangkok.

"The initiative will also support joint international investigations to help rescue victims and ensure traffickers are charged," she said.&nbsp;

Rising demand for cheap labour, especially in the fishing and construction industries, has spurred trafficking networks across Southeast Asia where porous borders allow for the easy movement of people.&nbsp;

China's thirst for brides from the Mekong region has also fuelled an illicit trade of mostly young women, thanks to Beijing's decades-long one-child policy and preference for boys.&nbsp;

"There are many deep-rooted factors that enable transnational crime, from corruption through to the unequal status of children and other vulnerable groups," Payne added.

The persecution of Rohingya Muslims in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-ngo-worker-shot-in-restive-rakhine-state-239511">Myanmar's restive Rakhine state</a> is also prompting new and dangerous networks to form.

Some 740,000 of the stateless Rohingya fled Myanmar for Bangladesh, following a brutal military crackdown in 2017 but many are leaving the squalid refugee camps in an attempt to reach Malaysia and Indonesia for work, where they are vulnerable to exploitation.

The sophisticated and lucrative trafficking trade in Southeast Asia was exposed in 2015 when Thailand tried to shut down a million-dollar people-smuggling route for Rohingya Muslims from Myanmar.&nbsp;

The route came to light after the discovery of the migrants' mass graves in southern Thailand.&nbsp;

Payne highlighted the Rohingya's plight on Thursday.

"We are also concerned about the situation in Rakhine State. We're committed to working with Myanmar, with Bangladesh, with ASEAN, and other partners towards a long term and durable solution," she said.&nbsp;

John Quinley from Fortify Rights, which documents trafficking cases in the region, called on ASEAN countries to boost cooperation and punish perpetrators.&nbsp;

"Human trafficking is a transnational crime that needs a transnational solution," he said.

In 2016, there were an estimated 25 million people trapped in modern slavery across Asia-Pacific, according to the Global Slavery Index.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Australia pledged US $55 million to fight human trafficking in Southeast Asia on Thursday, vowing to tackle "modern slavery" ensnaring vulnerable populations across the region, from low-paid workers to underage brides and Rohingya refugees.

Australia pledged US $55 million to fight human trafficking in Southeast Asia on Thursday, vowing to tackle "modern slavery" ensnaring vulnerable populations across the region, from low-paid workers to underage brides and Rohingya refugees. The funding is part of a 10-year scheme that includes training for police and judges to probe criminal networks, Australia's foreign affairs minister Marise Payne said at an Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) meeting in Bangkok. "The initiative will also support joint international investigations to help rescue victims and ensure traffickers are charged," she said. Rising demand for cheap labour, especially in the fishing and construction industries, has spurred trafficking networks across Southeast Asia where porous borders allow for the easy movement of people. China's thirst for brides from the Mekong region has also fuelled an illicit trade of mostly young women, thanks to Beijing's decades-long one-child policy and preference for boys. "There are many deep-rooted factors that enable transnational crime, from corruption through to the unequal status of children and other vulnerable groups," Payne added. The persecution of Rohingya Muslims in Myanmar's restive Rakhine state is also prompting new and dangerous networks to form. Some 740,000 of the stateless Rohingya fled Myanmar for Bangladesh, following a brutal military crackdown in 2017 but many are leaving the squalid refugee camps in an attempt to reach Malaysia and Indonesia for work, where they are vulnerable to exploitation. The sophisticated and lucrative trafficking trade in Southeast Asia was exposed in 2015 when Thailand tried to shut down a million-dollar people-smuggling route for Rohingya Muslims from Myanmar. The route came to light after the discovery of the migrants' mass graves in southern Thailand. Payne highlighted the Rohingya's plight on Thursday. "We are also concerned about the situation in Rakhine State. We're committed to working with Myanmar, with Bangladesh, with ASEAN, and other partners towards a long term and durable solution," she said. John Quinley from Fortify Rights, which documents trafficking cases in the region, called on ASEAN countries to boost cooperation and punish perpetrators. "Human trafficking is a transnational crime that needs a transnational solution," he said. In 2016, there were an estimated 25 million people trapped in modern slavery across Asia-Pacific, according to the Global Slavery Index.

Australia pledges US $55 million to fight human trafficking in Southeast Asia

China's top diplomat Wang Yi said maritime problems involving Vietnam should not interfere with bilateral relations, according to a report released by China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Tensions between <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/china-warns-outsiders-not-to-sow-distrust-in-south-china-sea-239750&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjJo8nOseHjAhVH_XMBHfosBk4QFjABegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1m7dDqekgrr56MzmR6XYoq">Vietnam and China</a> have risen over a weeks-long standoff between ships near an offshore oil block in the South China Sea.

China released the statement following a meeting between Wang and Vietnamese Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh on Thursday in Bangkok. Wang said China-Vietnam relations continued to develop and the two sides will "properly control and manage the situation at sea."

China's top diplomat Wang Yi said maritime problems involving Vietnam should not interfere with bilateral relations, according to a report released by China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

China's top diplomat Wang Yi said maritime problems involving Vietnam should not interfere with bilateral relations, according to a report released by China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Tensions between Vietnam and China have risen over a weeks-long standoff between ships near an offshore oil block in the South China Sea. China released the statement following a meeting between Wang and Vietnamese Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh on Thursday in Bangkok. Wang said China-Vietnam relations continued to develop and the two sides will "properly control and manage the situation at sea."

Vietnam 'maritime problems' should not impinge on bilateral ties: China

China's top diplomat on Wednesday warned outside countries not to amplify disputes in the South China Sea, where recent Chinese manoeuvring in the energy-rich waters has rattled regional states and drawn condemnation from the United States.

Chinese Councillor Wang Yi touted progress on an eventual Code of Conduct with the 10-member <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-east-asia/southeast-asia-should-ban-foreign-trash-imports-environmentalists-228309">Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)</a> after meeting counterparts in the Thai capital.

Tensions have risen in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-holds-military-drills-in-south-china-sea-near-taiwan-239171">South China Sea</a> over recent incidents between Chinese and Vietnamese and Philippine ships, the latest confrontations in a potential global flashpoint where the United States challenges China's sweeping maritime claims.

Wang, who is scheduled to meet US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Bangkok, reiterated after meeting ASEAN foreign ministers that China opposes interference by countries outside the region.

"We think non-regional countries should not deliberately amplify such differences or disputes left from the past," said Wang, responding to a question on the involvement of US and other non-Asian countries in the discussions.

"Non-regional countries should also not make use of these differences to sow distrust between China and ASEAN countries."

China recently said US criticism of its role in the South China Sea, including comments by Pompeo, were "slanderous".

Wang said China is in discussions to expand and "institutionalise" joint military drills with ASEAN countries in the region following two previous exercises.

The South China Sea was a key topic for ASEAN foreign ministers.

"Concerns were expressed by some ministers on the land reclamations, activities and serious incidents in the area," they said in a final communique.

The reference to "serious incidents" was stronger than that in the communique after their meeting last year, pointing to the extent to which tension over the region has risen.

China claims large parts of the South China Sea through which roughly $3.4 trillion in shipping passes each year. Countries including Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam contest the territorial claims.

China has unnerved the region and angered the United States by installing military equipment and other facilities on artificial islands it has made by reclaiming land and building up reefs and shoals.

Researchers and analysts say the latest standoff between Chinese and Vietnamese vessels could give the United States a new incentive to pressure China.

But they said China was unlikely to want to inflame the situation given its trade dispute with the United States and protests in Hong Kong.

"That tension right now going on between China and Vietnam will be the United States' anchor into making any statements on the South China Sea," said Jay Batongbacal, an expert on the South China Sea at the University of the Philippines.

"What China will be more concerned about is if the US tries to rally international support against China's activities," he said.

China's top diplomat on Wednesday warned outside countries not to amplify disputes in the South China Sea, where recent Chinese manoeuvring in the energy-rich waters has rattled regional states and drawn condemnation from the United States.

China's top diplomat on Wednesday warned outside countries not to amplify disputes in the South China Sea, where recent Chinese manoeuvring in the energy-rich waters has rattled regional states and drawn condemnation from the United States. Chinese Councillor Wang Yi touted progress on an eventual Code of Conduct with the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) after meeting counterparts in the Thai capital. Tensions have risen in the South China Sea over recent incidents between Chinese and Vietnamese and Philippine ships, the latest confrontations in a potential global flashpoint where the United States challenges China's sweeping maritime claims. Wang, who is scheduled to meet US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Bangkok, reiterated after meeting ASEAN foreign ministers that China opposes interference by countries outside the region. "We think non-regional countries should not deliberately amplify such differences or disputes left from the past," said Wang, responding to a question on the involvement of US and other non-Asian countries in the discussions. "Non-regional countries should also not make use of these differences to sow distrust between China and ASEAN countries." China recently said US criticism of its role in the South China Sea, including comments by Pompeo, were "slanderous". Wang said China is in discussions to expand and "institutionalise" joint military drills with ASEAN countries in the region following two previous exercises. The South China Sea was a key topic for ASEAN foreign ministers. "Concerns were expressed by some ministers on the land reclamations, activities and serious incidents in the area," they said in a final communique. The reference to "serious incidents" was stronger than that in the communique after their meeting last year, pointing to the extent to which tension over the region has risen. China claims large parts of the South China Sea through which roughly $3.4 trillion in shipping passes each year. Countries including Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam contest the territorial claims. China has unnerved the region and angered the United States by installing military equipment and other facilities on artificial islands it has made by reclaiming land and building up reefs and shoals. Researchers and analysts say the latest standoff between Chinese and Vietnamese vessels could give the United States a new incentive to pressure China. But they said China was unlikely to want to inflame the situation given its trade dispute with the United States and protests in Hong Kong. "That tension right now going on between China and Vietnam will be the United States' anchor into making any statements on the South China Sea," said Jay Batongbacal, an expert on the South China Sea at the University of the Philippines. "What China will be more concerned about is if the US tries to rally international support against China's activities," he said.

China warns outsiders not to 'sow distrust' in South China Sea

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is likely to have a pull-aside with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on the sidelines of 9th East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers meet in Bangkok, Thailand. 
 
Jaishankar will be in Bangkok from August 1 to August 2 and will also participate in ASEAN-India Ministerial Meeting, &nbsp;26th ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) &amp; 10th Mekong Ganga Cooperation (MGC) Ministerial Meeting.

Jaishankar-Pompeo pull aside will be the first high-level engagement between US and India since&nbsp;President Donald Trump's remarks on Kashmir.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump, a few weeks ago, had said Prime Minister Narendra Modi had called for mediation in Kashmir issue.

This was dismissed by the Indian side. Jaioshankar had said that all bilateral issues between India and Pakistan are governed by Shimla and Lahore agreements under which no third party mediation will be allowed.&nbsp;

During the two-day visit, Jaishankar will "enumerate India's Indo-Pacific vision, which was elaborated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his address at the Shangri La Dialogue in Singapore in June 2018", a ministry of external affairs release said. 
&nbsp; 
He will also meet the new British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab and the British envoy to India Dominic Asquith. He is expected to meet foreign minister of Sri Lanka, Tilak Marapana. 13 foreign ministers will be in Bangkok for the East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers meeting.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is likely to have a pull-aside with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on the sidelines of 9th East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers meet in Bangkok, Thailand.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is likely to have a pull-aside with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on the sidelines of 9th East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers meet in Bangkok, Thailand. Jaishankar will be in Bangkok from August 1 to August 2 and will also participate in ASEAN-India Ministerial Meeting, 26th ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) & 10th Mekong Ganga Cooperation (MGC) Ministerial Meeting. Jaishankar-Pompeo pull aside will be the first high-level engagement between US and India since President Donald Trump's remarks on Kashmir. US President Donald Trump, a few weeks ago, had said Prime Minister Narendra Modi had called for mediation in Kashmir issue. This was dismissed by the Indian side. Jaioshankar had said that all bilateral issues between India and Pakistan are governed by Shimla and Lahore agreements under which no third party mediation will be allowed. During the two-day visit, Jaishankar will "enumerate India's Indo-Pacific vision, which was elaborated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his address at the Shangri La Dialogue in Singapore in June 2018", a ministry of external affairs release said. He will also meet the new British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab and the British envoy to India Dominic Asquith. He is expected to meet foreign minister of Sri Lanka, Tilak Marapana. 13 foreign ministers will be in Bangkok for the East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers meeting.

Foreign minister S Jaishankar likely to meet Mike Pompeo in Bangkok

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/country-now-fully-democratic-says-thai-pm-prayuth-chan-ocha-after-resigning-as-military-head-236228">Thailand's Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha</a> faced opposition questions in parliament for the first time on Thursday as the former junta leader set out his government's plans.

Prayuth took power in a 2014 coup but has stayed on as prime minister after a general election in March held under a system that opposition parties say was engineered to ensure the military kept its hands on power.

Prayuth, who as junta leader developed a reputation for being dismissive of anyone who disagreed with him, greeted lawmakers by saying "I always missed you all."

As soon as Prayuth started his introduction, he was challenged by a member of the opposition Pheu Thai party to stick to the 66-page policy document and not to offer extra comment.

"OK, I will read that out for you. And you will have to follow along," he responded.

The policy priorities, released in summary on Sunday, including trying to encourage economic growth and developing the medical cannabis industry. The top priority is protecting the monarchy.

The most senior figures in the new government are all members of the former junta, but Prayuth needed to build a coalition with 19 other parties to ensure a small majority in the lower house of parliament over those who oppose him.

Asked before his parliament appearance if he was nervous, Prayuth said: "No, I've stayed for five years already."

Thailand's Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha faced opposition questions in parliament for the first time on Thursday as the former junta leader set out his government's plans.

Thailand's Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha faced opposition questions in parliament for the first time on Thursday as the former junta leader set out his government's plans. Prayuth took power in a 2014 coup but has stayed on as prime minister after a general election in March held under a system that opposition parties say was engineered to ensure the military kept its hands on power. Prayuth, who as junta leader developed a reputation for being dismissive of anyone who disagreed with him, greeted lawmakers by saying "I always missed you all." As soon as Prayuth started his introduction, he was challenged by a member of the opposition Pheu Thai party to stick to the 66-page policy document and not to offer extra comment. "OK, I will read that out for you. And you will have to follow along," he responded. The policy priorities, released in summary on Sunday, including trying to encourage economic growth and developing the medical cannabis industry. The top priority is protecting the monarchy. The most senior figures in the new government are all members of the former junta, but Prayuth needed to build a coalition with 19 other parties to ensure a small majority in the lower house of parliament over those who oppose him. Asked before his parliament appearance if he was nervous, Prayuth said: "No, I've stayed for five years already."

Thailand PM Prayuth Chan-ocha faces first opposition challenge as he sets out plans

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-rice-exports-hit-by-strong-baht-unlikely-to-meet-2019-goal-234687">Rice export prices</a> in India extended gains this week helped by a stronger rupee, while expectations of fresh supplies entering the market weighed on Thai rates along with muted demand across major paddy-growing countries.

Thailand's benchmark 5 percent broken rice prices were quoted at $390-$404 a tonne on Thursday, free on board Bangkok (FOB), down from $395-$413 last week.

"The new crop is expected to start entering the market next month and this has driven the price down a little but the strong baht also means that the export price remains strong overall," a Bangkok-based rice trader said.

Demand for Thai rice has remained flat as the local currency strengthened, traders added.

Thailand's rice exports fell by 12 per cent in the first half of 2019, hurt by the stronger baht, and will likely fall short of this year's target of 9.5 million tonnes, an exporter group said on Wednesday.

Thailand shipped 4.2 million tonnes of rice between January and June with orders in the last two months falling to as low as 600,000 tonnes per month, according to the Thai Rice Exporters Association.

For top rice exporter India, prices of the 5 percent broken parboiled variety were quoted around $374-$377 per tonne this week, up from last week's $371-$374.

The Indian rupee on Thursday rose to its highest level in 11-months, trimming exporters returns from overseas sales.

"For white rice demand is negligible. There's modest demand for parboiled from African buyers," said B V Krishna Rao, president of the Rice Exporters Association (REA).

The Indian government has also raised the price at which it will buy new-season common rice varieties from local farmers by 3.7 percent.

Meanwhile, neighbouring Bangladesh will procure 400,000 tonnes of paddy at 26,000 taka or $307.73 a tonne during the current harvesting season to support local farmers reeling under declining domestic prices, food minister Sadhan Chandra Majumdar said.

Market insiders, however, said the move would not benefit most growers in dire need of cash, since they were compelled to sell their crop at much cheaper rates to millers or middlemen.

Bangladesh has also been unable to clinch deals since its ban on rice exports was lifted in May.

In Vietnam, rates for 5% broken rice rose to $335-$340 a tonne from $330-$335 last week, as traders looked to increase profits, merchants said.

"Demand for 5% broken rice has been lacklustre this week," a trader based in Ho Chi Minh City said. "We have received orders for fragrant rice only."

Preliminary data showed nearly 60,000 tonnes of rice is to be loaded at Ho Chi Minh City ports during the July 1-16 period, compared with 311,700 tonnes in June, another trader said.

Most of the new shipments were headed to Iraq, Malaysia and West Africa, the trader added.

Rice export prices in India extended gains this week helped by a stronger rupee, while expectations of fresh supplies entering the market weighed on Thai rates along with muted demand across major paddy-growing countries.

Rice export prices in India extended gains this week helped by a stronger rupee, while expectations of fresh supplies entering the market weighed on Thai rates along with muted demand across major paddy-growing countries. Thailand's benchmark 5 percent broken rice prices were quoted at $390-$404 a tonne on Thursday, free on board Bangkok (FOB), down from $395-$413 last week. "The new crop is expected to start entering the market next month and this has driven the price down a little but the strong baht also means that the export price remains strong overall," a Bangkok-based rice trader said. Demand for Thai rice has remained flat as the local currency strengthened, traders added. Thailand's rice exports fell by 12 per cent in the first half of 2019, hurt by the stronger baht, and will likely fall short of this year's target of 9.5 million tonnes, an exporter group said on Wednesday. Thailand shipped 4.2 million tonnes of rice between January and June with orders in the last two months falling to as low as 600,000 tonnes per month, according to the Thai Rice Exporters Association. For top rice exporter India, prices of the 5 percent broken parboiled variety were quoted around $374-$377 per tonne this week, up from last week's $371-$374. The Indian rupee on Thursday rose to its highest level in 11-months, trimming exporters returns from overseas sales. "For white rice demand is negligible. There's modest demand for parboiled from African buyers," said B V Krishna Rao, president of the Rice Exporters Association (REA). The Indian government has also raised the price at which it will buy new-season common rice varieties from local farmers by 3.7 percent. Meanwhile, neighbouring Bangladesh will procure 400,000 tonnes of paddy at 26,000 taka or $307.73 a tonne during the current harvesting season to support local farmers reeling under declining domestic prices, food minister Sadhan Chandra Majumdar said. Market insiders, however, said the move would not benefit most growers in dire need of cash, since they were compelled to sell their crop at much cheaper rates to millers or middlemen. Bangladesh has also been unable to clinch deals since its ban on rice exports was lifted in May. In Vietnam, rates for 5% broken rice rose to $335-$340 a tonne from $330-$335 last week, as traders looked to increase profits, merchants said. "Demand for 5% broken rice has been lacklustre this week," a trader based in Ho Chi Minh City said. "We have received orders for fragrant rice only." Preliminary data showed nearly 60,000 tonnes of rice is to be loaded at Ho Chi Minh City ports during the July 1-16 period, compared with 311,700 tonnes in June, another trader said. Most of the new shipments were headed to Iraq, Malaysia and West Africa, the trader added.

Strong currency props up Indian rice rates, wider demand subdued

Thailand's highest court on Tuesday ordered compensation be paid to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/extortion-and-abuse-myanmar-workers-arrive-debt-laden-thailand-169336">14 migrant workers from Myanmar</a> whose accusations against a chicken farm of abuses sparked a landmark legal case for migrant labourers.

The workers in 2016 officially complained to Thailand's National Human Rights Commission about forced overtime, being paid less than the minimum wage, confiscation of passports, and limited freedom of movement.

But employer Thammakaset farm, which had supplied meat to Thai food conglomerate Betagro, denied the charges and launched a defamation lawsuit, saying the workers voluntarily worked nights and chose to sleep next to the chicken warehouse.

Betagro, which sells to companies around the globe, later said it had cut ties with the farm.

After a three-year legal battle, the Supreme Court upheld a lower court verdict from 2016 which found in favour of the workers and ruled they must be paid 1.7 million baht ($53,000) in compensation.

"There is no significant legal argument from the company's side," the court said in its order, dismissing the appeal.

A lawyer for the workers said they welcomed the verdict in a country that has been at the centre of a slew of slavery and human trafficking cases, including in its seafood sector.

"Hopefully, they will receive the compensation quickly and put this behind them," said Koreeyor Manuchae at NSP Legal Office.

Last July, a Bangkok court dismissed charges against the workers in the criminal defamation case which accused them of damaging the reputation of Thammakaset farm.&nbsp;

Labour rights activist Sutharee Wannasiri said Tuesday's verdict vindicated the workers.

"It's a very rare victory for labour rights and migrant workers in Thailand, and it will help bolster the rights of migrant workers in the country," she told the Thomson Reuters Foundation.

"The compensation is not a large amount, but it is symbolic, and shows there is a mechanism for securing remedies and accountability when businesses have violated rights."

Campaigners have urged better protection for migrant labourers and activists from civil and criminal lawsuits for exposing abusive working conditions.

In the face of mounting global scrutiny of supply chains, Thailand has strengthened laws to crack down on labour exploitation, but activists said it was still widespread.

Thailand's highest court on Tuesday ordered compensation be paid to 14 migrant workers from Myanmar whose accusations against a chicken farm of abuses sparked a landmark legal case for migrant labourers.

Thailand's highest court on Tuesday ordered compensation be paid to 14 migrant workers from Myanmar whose accusations against a chicken farm of abuses sparked a landmark legal case for migrant labourers. The workers in 2016 officially complained to Thailand's National Human Rights Commission about forced overtime, being paid less than the minimum wage, confiscation of passports, and limited freedom of movement. But employer Thammakaset farm, which had supplied meat to Thai food conglomerate Betagro, denied the charges and launched a defamation lawsuit, saying the workers voluntarily worked nights and chose to sleep next to the chicken warehouse. Betagro, which sells to companies around the globe, later said it had cut ties with the farm. After a three-year legal battle, the Supreme Court upheld a lower court verdict from 2016 which found in favour of the workers and ruled they must be paid 1.7 million baht ($53,000) in compensation. "There is no significant legal argument from the company's side," the court said in its order, dismissing the appeal. A lawyer for the workers said they welcomed the verdict in a country that has been at the centre of a slew of slavery and human trafficking cases, including in its seafood sector. "Hopefully, they will receive the compensation quickly and put this behind them," said Koreeyor Manuchae at NSP Legal Office. Last July, a Bangkok court dismissed charges against the workers in the criminal defamation case which accused them of damaging the reputation of Thammakaset farm. Labour rights activist Sutharee Wannasiri said Tuesday's verdict vindicated the workers. "It's a very rare victory for labour rights and migrant workers in Thailand, and it will help bolster the rights of migrant workers in the country," she told the Thomson Reuters Foundation. "The compensation is not a large amount, but it is symbolic, and shows there is a mechanism for securing remedies and accountability when businesses have violated rights." Campaigners have urged better protection for migrant labourers and activists from civil and criminal lawsuits for exposing abusive working conditions. In the face of mounting global scrutiny of supply chains, Thailand has strengthened laws to crack down on labour exploitation, but activists said it was still widespread.

Thailand top court orders compensation for Myanmar workers in landmark case

Thailand's King Maha Vajiralongkorn led a mass bicycle riding event on Sunday (December 9) in a 39-kilometre tour around Bangkok, in order to encourage Thais to do more physical exercise.

The king, 66, was joined by his daughters, Princess Bajrakitiyabha and Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana, as they cycled pass various landmarks in the Thai capital.

The Bike Un Ai Rak 2018, which can be translated as 'Bike in Warmth of Love', is the third cycling event King Vajiralongkorn has initiated, the last two were held on the Birthdays of his parents, the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit, in 2015.

Over 630,000 people registered for the event, according to the official website for the event.

Thailand's King Maha Vajiralongkorn led a mass bicycle riding event on Sunday (December 9) in a 39-kilometre tour around Bangkok, in order to encourage Thais to do more physical exercise.

Thailand's King Maha Vajiralongkorn led a mass bicycle riding event on Sunday (December 9) in a 39-kilometre tour around Bangkok, in order to encourage Thais to do more physical exercise. The king, 66, was joined by his daughters, Princess Bajrakitiyabha and Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana, as they cycled pass various landmarks in the Thai capital. The Bike Un Ai Rak 2018, which can be translated as 'Bike in Warmth of Love', is the third cycling event King Vajiralongkorn has initiated, the last two were held on the Birthdays of his parents, the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit, in 2015. Over 630,000 people registered for the event, according to the official website for the event.

Thai king leads mass cycling event around Bangkok, cycles over 35 kilometres

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