After Maldives & Singapore, Gotabaya Rajapaksa has sought refuge in Thailand. The Thai Foreign Ministry has approved his request for refuge, but has denied granting him asylum. It has also asked Gotabaya to not conduct political activities on Thai soil. Palki Sharma Upadhyay reports.

Gravitas: Gotabaya Rajapaksa seeks refuge in Thailand

Sri&nbsp;Lanka's former president, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, is expected to arrive in Thailand on Thursday and stay temporarily in a second Southeast Asian country since fleeing his island nation last month in the midst of mass protests.

Rajapaksa fled to Singapore on July 14 and resigned from office shortly afterward, following unprecedented unrest over his government's handling of the worst economic crisis in seven decades, and days after thousands of protesters stormed the president's official residence and office.

Also&nbsp;read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-govt-asks-thailand-to-grant-entry-to-gotabaya-rajapaksa-505609">Sri Lanka govt asks Thailand to grant entry to Gotabaya Rajapaksa</a>

The former military officer, who is the first&nbsp;Sri&nbsp;Lankan head of state to quit mid-term, is expected to travel from Singapore to Thailand's capital of Bangkok on Thursday, two sources said. It was unclear what time he would arrive.

Thai authorities said Rajapaksa had no intention of seeking political asylum and would only stay temporarily.

"This is a humanitarian issue and there is an agreement that it's a temporary stay," Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha told reporters on Wednesday.

Prayuth also said Rajapaksa could not participate in any political activities while in Thailand.

Foreign Minister Don Pramudwinai said the current&nbsp;Sri&nbsp;Lankan government supported Rajapaksa's trip to Thailand, adding that the former president's diplomatic passport would allow him to stay for 90 days.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/indian-oil-corp-unit-to-open-50-fuel-stations-in-sri-lanka-to-battle-crisis-504839">&nbsp;Indian Oil Corp unit to open 50 fuel stations in Sri Lanka to battle crisis</a>

Rajapaksa has made no public appearances or comments since leaving&nbsp;Sri&nbsp;Lanka.

Sri&nbsp;Lanka's economic crisis is a result of several factors, including COVID-19, which battered its tourism-reliant economy and slashed remittances from workers overseas, rising oil prices, populist tax cuts, and a seven-month ban on the import of chemical fertilisers last year that devastated agriculture.

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Sri Lanka's former president, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, is expected to arrive in Thailand on Thursday and stay temporarily in a second Southeast Asian country since fleeing his island nation last month in the midst of mass protests.

Sri Lanka's former president, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, is expected to arrive in Thailand on Thursday and stay temporarily in a second Southeast Asian country since fleeing his island nation last month in the midst of mass protests. Rajapaksa fled to Singapore on July 14 and resigned from office shortly afterward, following unprecedented unrest over his government's handling of the worst economic crisis in seven decades, and days after thousands of protesters stormed the president's official residence and office. Also read | Sri Lanka govt asks Thailand to grant entry to Gotabaya Rajapaksa The former military officer, who is the first Sri Lankan head of state to quit mid-term, is expected to travel from Singapore to Thailand's capital of Bangkok on Thursday, two sources said. It was unclear what time he would arrive. Thai authorities said Rajapaksa had no intention of seeking political asylum and would only stay temporarily. "This is a humanitarian issue and there is an agreement that it's a temporary stay," Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha told reporters on Wednesday. Prayuth also said Rajapaksa could not participate in any political activities while in Thailand. Foreign Minister Don Pramudwinai said the current Sri Lankan government supported Rajapaksa's trip to Thailand, adding that the former president's diplomatic passport would allow him to stay for 90 days. Also read | Indian Oil Corp unit to open 50 fuel stations in Sri Lanka to battle crisis Rajapaksa has made no public appearances or comments since leaving Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka's economic crisis is a result of several factors, including COVID-19, which battered its tourism-reliant economy and slashed remittances from workers overseas, rising oil prices, populist tax cuts, and a seven-month ban on the import of chemical fertilisers last year that devastated agriculture. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Sri Lanka's ousted president to fly to Thailand for temporary stay

Sri Lanka's ousted President, Rajapaksa Gotabaya, is expected to arrive in Thailand's capital Bangkok. The former president has not made any public appearances since leaving the country.

Thailand: 2nd nation where Rajapaksa is likely to take shelter, to land in Bangkok

Sri Lanka's ousted President Gotabaya Rajapaksa is expected to arrive in Thailand's capital on Thursday after fleeing to Singapore on the 14th July via Maldives. Now, fresh protests in Colombo have erupted against the government. Protesters demand fresh elections and release of jailed agitators.

Reports: Sri Lanka's ousted President Gotabaya Rajapaksa to land in Thailand

A fire at a nightclub in Thailand on Friday killed 13 and left around 40 injured. The incident happened at a club situated in Chonburi province's Sattahip district, about 150 kilometres south of Bangkok, a police official said.

The fire at the Mountain B night club started at about 1:00 am (1800 GMT Thursday). Police Colonel Wuttipong Somjai informed that till now all the victims, four women and nine men, were Thai nationals.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-becomes-first-asian-country-to-legalise-consumption-of-marijuana-486464">Thailand becomes first Asian country to legalise consumption of marijuana</a>

Firefighters fought the blaze for more than&nbsp;three hours before it could be brought under control. Officials said that the flammable acoustic foam on the walls of the club made the fire worse.&nbsp;

Thailand is no stranger to such incidents. In the past, two deadly blazes at nightclubs claimed several lives. A New Year's Eve party at Bangkok's Santika club in 2009 killed 67 people and left over 200 injured, AFP reported.

In 2012, a fire at a Phuket club killed four people.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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A fire at a nightclub in Thailand on Friday killed 13 and left around 40 injured. The incident happened at a club situated in Chonburi province's Sattahip district, about 150 kilometres south of Bangkok, a police official said.

A fire at a nightclub in Thailand on Friday killed 13 and left around 40 injured. The incident happened at a club situated in Chonburi province's Sattahip district, about 150 kilometres south of Bangkok, a police official said. The fire at the Mountain B night club started at about 1:00 am (1800 GMT Thursday). Police Colonel Wuttipong Somjai informed that till now all the victims, four women and nine men, were Thai nationals. Also Read | Thailand becomes first Asian country to legalise consumption of marijuana Firefighters fought the blaze for more than three hours before it could be brought under control. Officials said that the flammable acoustic foam on the walls of the club made the fire worse. Thailand is no stranger to such incidents. In the past, two deadly blazes at nightclubs claimed several lives. A New Year's Eve party at Bangkok's Santika club in 2009 killed 67 people and left over 200 injured, AFP reported. In 2012, a fire at a Phuket club killed four people. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Fire at Thai nightclub kills 13

Thailand's prime minister on Friday ordered an investigation into a massive blaze that tore through a nightclub, killing at least 14 people.

Thai nightclub fire kills at least 14, PM orders an investigation

After the government legalised the plant and its extract this year, sparking a wave of interest in the drug, Thai entrepreneurs are cashing in with cannabis-infused goods including toothpaste, tea, soaps, and snacks. In 2018, Thailand became the first nation in Southeast Asia to legalise marijuana for research and medical purposes. Thailand decriminalised the entire plant last month. Cannabis use for recreational purposes has skyrocketed since it was removed from the list of illegal drugs.

Cannabidiol (CBD), a component of cannabis that does not give consumers a high, is permitted to be used in commercial goods that have received approval from the food and drug regulator. However, the regulator only allows 0.2 per cent of the psychoactive compound tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) to be present in any cannabis product. Cannabis has a long history of use in traditional Thai medicine to treat pain. New concepts are now being developed by innovators.

The proprietor of Channherb, Surawut Samphant, has developed toothpaste. He added, "One of its ingredients is cannabis sativa seed oil, which contains CBD."&nbsp;A happy consumer testified that the toothpaste helped him maintain healthy gums, and Surawat agreed.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/despite-low-voter-turnout-tunisia-adopts-new-constitution-leading-towards-autocracy-500994">Despite low voter turnout, Tunisia adopts new constitution leading towards autocracy</a>

Kreephet Hanpongpipat, the proprietor of the Kanomsiam dessert shop, had long sold desserts with pandan leaf flavouring, but a year ago he added cannabis leaf to attract more customers. According to Kreephet's consumers, the cannabis-infused pastries help them sleep soundly. The biggest proponent of legalising marijuana for medical use, Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, predicts the market will be worth more than $3 billion in five years.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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After the government legalised the plant and its extract this year, sparking a wave of interest in the drug, Thai entrepreneurs are cashing in with cannabis-infused goods including toothpaste, tea, soaps, and snacks.

After the government legalised the plant and its extract this year, sparking a wave of interest in the drug, Thai entrepreneurs are cashing in with cannabis-infused goods including toothpaste, tea, soaps, and snacks. In 2018, Thailand became the first nation in Southeast Asia to legalise marijuana for research and medical purposes. Thailand decriminalised the entire plant last month. Cannabis use for recreational purposes has skyrocketed since it was removed from the list of illegal drugs. Cannabidiol (CBD), a component of cannabis that does not give consumers a high, is permitted to be used in commercial goods that have received approval from the food and drug regulator. However, the regulator only allows 0.2 per cent of the psychoactive compound tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) to be present in any cannabis product. Cannabis has a long history of use in traditional Thai medicine to treat pain. New concepts are now being developed by innovators. The proprietor of Channherb, Surawut Samphant, has developed toothpaste. He added, "One of its ingredients is cannabis sativa seed oil, which contains CBD." A happy consumer testified that the toothpaste helped him maintain healthy gums, and Surawat agreed. Also Read: Despite low voter turnout, Tunisia adopts new constitution leading towards autocracy Kreephet Hanpongpipat, the proprietor of the Kanomsiam dessert shop, had long sold desserts with pandan leaf flavouring, but a year ago he added cannabis leaf to attract more customers. According to Kreephet's consumers, the cannabis-infused pastries help them sleep soundly. The biggest proponent of legalising marijuana for medical use, Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, predicts the market will be worth more than $3 billion in five years. (with inputs from agencies)

From milk tea to toothpaste, Thailand businesses profit from cannabis legalisation 

Thailand’s Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-o-cha has been under a lot of pressure politically but there was good news for the 68-year-old on Saturday as he survived yet another no-confidence vote in the parliament. This was the fourth no-confidence vote during his tenure as Prime Minister since 2019. In the recent months, the opposition in Thailand were extremely critical of Prayuth as they blamed him for corruption and “economic mismanagement”. However, he was able to prove his majority in the parliament after getting 256 votes from a total of 477 as nine abstained from the process.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-has-been-a-very-active-buyer-and-is-stockpiling-grain-says-us-499913" hreflang="en">China has been a very active buyer, is stockpiling grain, says US</a>

The tenure was shrouded with controversies from the beginning as the opposition were not happy with the elections in 2019. They accused the government of tweaking the rules in order to hand Prayuth an unfair advantage after he came to power following a military coup back in 2014.

The public has also been criticising the government for a number of steps taken in the past few years and protests have become common sight on the streets of various cities across the country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-port-of-odessa-hit-by-explosions-hours-after-russian-grain-deal-500011">Ukrainian port of Odessa hit by explosions hours after Russian grain deal</a>

They were also questions asked of the government regarding their handling of the COVID-19 pandemic which saw a number of deaths. Following the controversies, Prayuth faced a no-confidence vote in September 2021 as well, but he was able to retain power with 264 votes.

Following the no-confidence vote, Prayuth once again denied all the allegations levelled against his government but did not provide any clear picture about when the next elections will be held.

Thailand’s Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-o-cha has been under a lot of pressure politically but there was good news for the 68-year-old on Saturday as he survived yet another no-confidence vote in the parliament.

Thailand’s Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-o-cha has been under a lot of pressure politically but there was good news for the 68-year-old on Saturday as he survived yet another no-confidence vote in the parliament. This was the fourth no-confidence vote during his tenure as Prime Minister since 2019. In the recent months, the opposition in Thailand were extremely critical of Prayuth as they blamed him for corruption and “economic mismanagement”. However, he was able to prove his majority in the parliament after getting 256 votes from a total of 477 as nine abstained from the process. Also read | China has been a very active buyer, is stockpiling grain, says US The tenure was shrouded with controversies from the beginning as the opposition were not happy with the elections in 2019. They accused the government of tweaking the rules in order to hand Prayuth an unfair advantage after he came to power following a military coup back in 2014. The public has also been criticising the government for a number of steps taken in the past few years and protests have become common sight on the streets of various cities across the country. Also read | Ukrainian port of Odessa hit by explosions hours after Russian grain deal They were also questions asked of the government regarding their handling of the COVID-19 pandemic which saw a number of deaths. Following the controversies, Prayuth faced a no-confidence vote in September 2021 as well, but he was able to retain power with 264 votes. Following the no-confidence vote, Prayuth once again denied all the allegations levelled against his government but did not provide any clear picture about when the next elections will be held.

Thailand PM Prayuth Chan-o-cha survives fourth no-confidence vote since 2019

A Thai minister has admitted the country uses surveillance software to track individuals in cases involving national security or drugs, amid revelations that government critics' phones had been hacked using the Israeli-made Pegasus spyware.

Minister of Digital Economy and Society, Chaiwut Thanakamanusorn, said in parliament late on Tuesday that he is aware of Thai authorities using spyware in "limited" cases but did not specify which government agency used such software, which programme was used or which individuals targeted.

Human rights groups have accused successive Thai governments of using broad definitions of national security as a pretext to prosecute or suppress the activities of their main rivals.

A joint investigation by Thai human rights group iLaw, Southeast Asian internet watchdog Digital Reach and Toronto-based Citizen Lab highlighted on Monday the use of Pegasus spyware on at least 30 government critics between October 2020 to November 2021.

The probe followed a mass alert from Apple Inc. in November informing thousands of users of its iPhones, including in Thailand, that they were targets of "state-sponsored attackers".

Chaiwut did not name Pegasus but said that he is aware of spyware being used to "listen into or access a mobile phone to view the screen, monitor conversations and messages". But he added his ministry does not have the legal authority to use such software and did not specify which government agency does.

"It is used on national security or drug matters. If you need to arrest a drug dealer you have to listen in to find where the drop would be," he said.

"I understand that there was the usage of this sort but it is very limited and only in special cases."

His ministry has previously denied any knowledge of the matter.

The most recent alleged use of the spyware comes after the emergence of a youth-led movement in late 2020 that challenged the country's powerful monarchy and the government of Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha. More than 1,800 people have faced security-related charges since the movement began.

Thai police in a statement denied the use of Pegasus for surveillance or breaches of privacy.

Pegasus has been used by governments to spy on journalists, activists, and dissidents and the Israeli firm behind it, NSO Group, has been sued by Apple and placed on a U.S. trade blacklist.

NSO Group did not respond to Reuters' requests for comment on Monday or Wednesday.

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A Thai minister has admitted the country uses surveillance software to track individuals in cases involving national security or drugs, amid revelations that government critics' phones had been hacked using the Israeli-made Pegasus spyware.

A Thai minister has admitted the country uses surveillance software to track individuals in cases involving national security or drugs, amid revelations that government critics' phones had been hacked using the Israeli-made Pegasus spyware. Minister of Digital Economy and Society, Chaiwut Thanakamanusorn, said in parliament late on Tuesday that he is aware of Thai authorities using spyware in "limited" cases but did not specify which government agency used such software, which programme was used or which individuals targeted. Human rights groups have accused successive Thai governments of using broad definitions of national security as a pretext to prosecute or suppress the activities of their main rivals. A joint investigation by Thai human rights group iLaw, Southeast Asian internet watchdog Digital Reach and Toronto-based Citizen Lab highlighted on Monday the use of Pegasus spyware on at least 30 government critics between October 2020 to November 2021. The probe followed a mass alert from Apple Inc. in November informing thousands of users of its iPhones, including in Thailand, that they were targets of "state-sponsored attackers". Chaiwut did not name Pegasus but said that he is aware of spyware being used to "listen into or access a mobile phone to view the screen, monitor conversations and messages". But he added his ministry does not have the legal authority to use such software and did not specify which government agency does. "It is used on national security or drug matters. If you need to arrest a drug dealer you have to listen in to find where the drop would be," he said. "I understand that there was the usage of this sort but it is very limited and only in special cases." His ministry has previously denied any knowledge of the matter. The most recent alleged use of the spyware comes after the emergence of a youth-led movement in late 2020 that challenged the country's powerful monarchy and the government of Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha. More than 1,800 people have faced security-related charges since the movement began. Thai police in a statement denied the use of Pegasus for surveillance or breaches of privacy. Pegasus has been used by governments to spy on journalists, activists, and dissidents and the Israeli firm behind it, NSO Group, has been sued by Apple and placed on a U.S. trade blacklist. NSO Group did not respond to Reuters' requests for comment on Monday or Wednesday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Thailand admits to using phone spyware, cites national security

In Thailand, a baby elephant was rescued from a manhole. His mother was sedated to allow the operation to save her baby in the Khao Yai National Park in Central Thailand.

WION Climate Tracker: Baby Elephant's dramatic rescue from manhole in Thailand

An elephant and her calf were rescued from a manhole in Thailand in a dramatic operation. The calf had fallen into the manhole, and the mother had refused to leave her baby's side, she had to be tranquilised. Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: Thailand: Elephant and her calf rescued in a dramatic operation

In a dramatic rescue, a baby elephant was fished out of a manhole while its mother had to be given CPR. A video of the dramatic rescue is doing the rounds on the internet and people are obsessed, rightfully so. As per an AFP report, the incident is from the Nakhon Nayok province of Thailand. The mother-baby elephant duo were reportedly travelling through the jungle with their herd when the baby tumbled into a manhole. While the rest of the herd kept moving, the baby elephant's distressed mother remained rooted to the spot.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Bees that are fish, to the elephant that's human: Five defining cases in animal rights

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A passing resident witnessed the pair's dilemma and quickly alerted wildlife officials and Khao Yai National Park authorities to their plight.&nbsp;

Here's a video of the amazing rescue:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
VIDEO: Baby elephant pulled from manhole in Thailand. 
 
Its mother stayed with the infant as it was unable to climb out, and had to be sedated to allow the rescue to go ahead. Unfortunately the mother then partially tumbled into the hole and had to be pulled out herself <a href="https://t.co/HOX9YZ0gOu">pic.twitter.com/HOX9YZ0gOu</a>
— AFP News Agency (@AFP) <a href="https://twitter.com/AFP/status/1547809703887261697?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The would-be rescuers rushed onto the spot but were unable to do anything in the presence of the frantic mother elephant. So, they decided to anaesthetise the pachyderm.&nbsp;

However, upon being given the tranquiliser, the mother elephant too tumbled into the hole, though only partially. She then had to be lifted out with the help of a digger. She had to be administered CPR, however, the reason behind this remains a bit unclear. In the video multiple people can be seen jumping on her chest, putting pressure there so as to revive her.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/indian-court-compares-a-wife-removing-mangalsutra-to-mental-cruelty-internet-reacts-497600" hreflang="en">Indian court compares a wife removing mangalsutra to 'mental cruelty'. Internet reacts!</a>

In the meanwhile, the calf was rescued from the manhole and was reunited with its mother.

The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plants Conservation reported that the calf and its mother had safely retreated back into the jungle.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In a dramatic rescue, a baby elephant was fished out of a manhole while its mother had to be given CPR. A video of the dramatic rescue is doing the rounds on the internet and people are obsessed, rightfully so.

In a dramatic rescue, a baby elephant was fished out of a manhole while its mother had to be given CPR. A video of the dramatic rescue is doing the rounds on the internet and people are obsessed, rightfully so. As per an AFP report, the incident is from the Nakhon Nayok province of Thailand. The mother-baby elephant duo were reportedly travelling through the jungle with their herd when the baby tumbled into a manhole. While the rest of the herd kept moving, the baby elephant's distressed mother remained rooted to the spot. Watch | Bees that are fish, to the elephant that's human: Five defining cases in animal rights A passing resident witnessed the pair's dilemma and quickly alerted wildlife officials and Khao Yai National Park authorities to their plight. Here's a video of the amazing rescue: VIDEO: Baby elephant pulled from manhole in Thailand. Its mother stayed with the infant as it was unable to climb out, and had to be sedated to allow the rescue to go ahead. Unfortunately the mother then partially tumbled into the hole and had to be pulled out herself pic.twitter.com/HOX9YZ0gOu — AFP News Agency (@AFP) July 15, 2022 × The would-be rescuers rushed onto the spot but were unable to do anything in the presence of the frantic mother elephant. So, they decided to anaesthetise the pachyderm. However, upon being given the tranquiliser, the mother elephant too tumbled into the hole, though only partially. She then had to be lifted out with the help of a digger. She had to be administered CPR, however, the reason behind this remains a bit unclear. In the video multiple people can be seen jumping on her chest, putting pressure there so as to revive her. Also read | Indian court compares a wife removing mangalsutra to 'mental cruelty'. Internet reacts! In the meanwhile, the calf was rescued from the manhole and was reunited with its mother. The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plants Conservation reported that the calf and its mother had safely retreated back into the jungle. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION LIVE HERE: You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Watch: Cranes, CPR & more, dramatic video shows rescue operation involving a mother elephant and her calf

Jiratti Kuttanam, who is facing stage four breast cancer, finds solace in the glass jars of dried cannabis stashed in the cupboard.

Thai cancer patient welcomes Cannabis legislation

Thai air guitar championship was held in Bangkok. The Thai air guitar championship was founded in Finland in 1996 to promote world peace.

Thai air guitar championship held in Bangkok

In pics: Former prime minister’s daughter takes Shinawatra brand to influence new Thai generation

Thailand has legalised cannabis! This means – People can now grow cannabis plant at home. But that does not mean people can use it for recreational purposes. Govt hopes that this will boost tourism & agriculture. Govt is also giving away one million seedlings.

Thailand legalises cannabis – What does this mean? Are there restrictions on use?

Thai railway market back on track post-pandemic - see pics

Thailand celebrated its first pride parade in 16 years. Several Drag artists, sex workers, and feminists participated from across the country.

Thailand celebrates first pride parade in 16 years: Chants for same sex marriage reverberate

In pics: Bangkok celebrates its first pride parade in nearly 16 years

Drag artists, sex workers, and feminists participate in Thailand's 1st pride parade in 16 years

Remains of a world war 2 US airman has been found in Thailand. The discovered remains were sent back to the United States.

Remains of WWII US airman found in Thailand: Discovered remains sent to the US

Thailand is giving away 1 million cannabis plants for free as it decriminalises the drug. The country's health ministry aims to use cannabis to boos tourism & generate revenue. Which other countries have legalised weed? Palki Sharma reports.

Gravitas: Thailand is giving away 1 million cannabis plants

A 72-year-old man from Bangkok in Thailand finally cremated his wife’s body after keeping it inside a coffin at his home for almost 21 years. Since the death of his wife in 2001, the retired military officer called Chan Chanwatcharakarn has kept her body in their home in the Ben Khen district.

However, according to a report on the Strait Times, Chanwatcharakarn was worried that he would die without holding a funeral for his wife and as a result, he decided to cremate her belongings with the help of a foundation. The foundation helped him in arranging for the cremation and funeral.

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According to the report, his wife died from a brain aneurysm after experiencing high blood pressure and her body was taken to Wat Chonpratarn Rangsarit in Nonthaburi to have Buddhist rites conducted. However, he did not cremate her body and kept it in a coffin instead.

&nbsp;The 72-year-old used to speak regularly with his wife’s coffin and kept the coffin completely clean.

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The Petchkasem Krungthep Foundation, which helped Chen in completing the last rites of his wife, said that his house was like a ‘storage facility’ with running water but no electricity. They also said that the woman’s body was found in a ‘dry condition’ inside the well-maintained coffin in the house.

After the cremation, the last remains were kept in an urn which Chen said that he will keep with himself till he dies. The foundation is taking care of Chen right now with volunteers giving him food and drink to the 72-year-old after helping him with the cremation of his late wife.

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Bangkok man cremates his wife after living with her coffin for 21 years

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A 72-year-old man from Bangkok in Thailand finally cremated his wife’s body after keeping it inside a coffin at his home for almost 21 years. Since the death of his wife in 2001, the retired military officer called Chan Chanwatcharakarn has kept her body in their home in the Ben Khen district.

A 72-year-old man from Bangkok in Thailand finally cremated his wife’s body after keeping it inside a coffin at his home for almost 21 years. Since the death of his wife in 2001, the retired military officer called Chan Chanwatcharakarn has kept her body in their home in the Ben Khen district. However, according to a report on the Strait Times, Chanwatcharakarn was worried that he would die without holding a funeral for his wife and as a result, he decided to cremate her belongings with the help of a foundation. The foundation helped him in arranging for the cremation and funeral. Also read | Watch | Chinese nurse kicks elderly patient at a hospital, video causes fury According to the report, his wife died from a brain aneurysm after experiencing high blood pressure and her body was taken to Wat Chonpratarn Rangsarit in Nonthaburi to have Buddhist rites conducted. However, he did not cremate her body and kept it in a coffin instead. The 72-year-old used to speak regularly with his wife’s coffin and kept the coffin completely clean. Also read | In pics: Chinese robots that can maneuver bamboo forests without human help The Petchkasem Krungthep Foundation, which helped Chen in completing the last rites of his wife, said that his house was like a ‘storage facility’ with running water but no electricity. They also said that the woman’s body was found in a ‘dry condition’ inside the well-maintained coffin in the house. After the cremation, the last remains were kept in an urn which Chen said that he will keep with himself till he dies. The foundation is taking care of Chen right now with volunteers giving him food and drink to the 72-year-old after helping him with the cremation of his late wife. WATCH | Gravitas: Bangkok man cremates his wife after living with her coffin for 21 years

72-year-old man from Bangkok cremates his wife after living with her coffin for 21 years

This unique competition in Thailand allows people to fire rockets! Not just any rockets, but these are filled with homemade explosives. Watch this report.

This Thailand competition allows people to fire explosive-filled rockets | WION Edge

In pics: With Ramadan coming to an end, Muslims prepare for Eid al-Fitr worldwide

There is a real life fight club in Bangkok that is inspired by Brad Pitt's movie. In the club, there are a variety of occupations and a variety of fighting styles that are different from the styles in the ring. There is no gambling here, this is fighting by instinct.

Thailand: Amateur fighters form a real life fight club in Bangkok

The leader of one of&nbsp;Thailand's biggest political parties apologised on Tuesday over the conduct of a former executive accused by more than a dozen women of sexual abuse in what some activists have called the country's first "MeToo" moment.

Prinn Panitchpakdi, 44, resigned as deputy leader of the Democrat Party last week and was charged on Saturday with sexual abuse and rape after complaints were filed against him by five women separately.

Prinn, the son of former World Trade Organisation (WTO) chief Supachai Panitchpakdi, has denied the charges and was freed on bail on Sunday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vietnamese-man-tries-to-row-from-thailand-to-india-to-see-wife-465166">Vietnamese man tries to row from Thailand to India to see wife</a>

Nine more women have since come forward with similar allegations against Prinn, according to police. Prinn has made no public comment since the new allegations were made and said he was unavailable when contacted by Reuters on Tuesday.

Party leader Jurin Laksanawisit, a close associate of Prinn, on Tuesday apologised over the scandal and acknowledged his role in endorsing him as a senior party member.

"I'm deeply sorry and must apologise for everything that has happened that was linked to a Democrat Party member," Jurin told a news conference, without elaborating.

"As a party leader, I must acknowledge that I was a key part in an effort to bring Prinn into the party."

Watch |&nbsp;Thailand's prime minister visits Saudi Arabia, calls it a 'new journey

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The hashtag #MeToo has trended on social media in&nbsp;Thailand since last week, with users expressing outrage over the scope of the alleged misconduct and a perception of impunity for the political elite.

Jurin, who is commerce minister and deputy prime minister in the ruling coalition, said his party stands against sexual harassment and violence against children and women.

He also resigned as chairman of two government committees on gender equality and women's policies, and said the Democrat Party would conduct its own internal investigation.

"We will not step in to protect Prinn, nor intervene in the justice process," he said.

Trairong Piwpan, deputy commissioner of the Metropolitan Police Bureau, confirmed to Reuters that 14 victims had so far come forward with allegations against Prinn, nine of whom met on Monday with police, who were considering the cases.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-drops-pre-arrival-covid-19-test-for-foreign-visitors-463581">Thailand drops pre-arrival COVID-19 test for foreign visitors</a>

According to Sittra Biabungkerd of the People's Lawyers Foundation, a legal assistance group representing the victims, all were between 17 and 30 at the time of the alleged offences, some of which were more than a decade ago, and five have said they were raped.

"There are many others who are still afraid to come forward," Sittra told Reuters.

The leader of one of Thailand's biggest political parties apologised on Tuesday over the conduct of a former executive accused by more than a dozen women of sexual abuse in what some activists have called the country's first "MeToo" moment.

The leader of one of Thailand's biggest political parties apologised on Tuesday over the conduct of a former executive accused by more than a dozen women of sexual abuse in what some activists have called the country's first "MeToo" moment. Prinn Panitchpakdi, 44, resigned as deputy leader of the Democrat Party last week and was charged on Saturday with sexual abuse and rape after complaints were filed against him by five women separately. Prinn, the son of former World Trade Organisation (WTO) chief Supachai Panitchpakdi, has denied the charges and was freed on bail on Sunday. Also read | Vietnamese man tries to row from Thailand to India to see wife Nine more women have since come forward with similar allegations against Prinn, according to police. Prinn has made no public comment since the new allegations were made and said he was unavailable when contacted by Reuters on Tuesday. Party leader Jurin Laksanawisit, a close associate of Prinn, on Tuesday apologised over the scandal and acknowledged his role in endorsing him as a senior party member. "I'm deeply sorry and must apologise for everything that has happened that was linked to a Democrat Party member," Jurin told a news conference, without elaborating. "As a party leader, I must acknowledge that I was a key part in an effort to bring Prinn into the party." Watch | Thailand's prime minister visits Saudi Arabia, calls it a 'new journey The hashtag #MeToo has trended on social media in Thailand since last week, with users expressing outrage over the scope of the alleged misconduct and a perception of impunity for the political elite. Jurin, who is commerce minister and deputy prime minister in the ruling coalition, said his party stands against sexual harassment and violence against children and women. He also resigned as chairman of two government committees on gender equality and women's policies, and said the Democrat Party would conduct its own internal investigation. "We will not step in to protect Prinn, nor intervene in the justice process," he said. Trairong Piwpan, deputy commissioner of the Metropolitan Police Bureau, confirmed to Reuters that 14 victims had so far come forward with allegations against Prinn, nine of whom met on Monday with police, who were considering the cases. Also read | Thailand drops pre-arrival COVID-19 test for foreign visitors According to Sittra Biabungkerd of the People's Lawyers Foundation, a legal assistance group representing the victims, all were between 17 and 30 at the time of the alleged offences, some of which were more than a decade ago, and five have said they were raped. "There are many others who are still afraid to come forward," Sittra told Reuters.

Thailand party apologises as sexual misconduct cases mount against executive

Manchester United will face rivals Liverpool as part of their pre-season tour to Thailand and Australia in July, the Premier League club announced on Thursday.

United will meet Liverpool in Bangkok on July 12 before flying to Australia to play A-League team Melbourne Victory on July 15 and Crystal Palace four days later.

The popular Melbourne Cricket Ground will host those matches.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/david-beckham-and-family-left-shaken-after-burglary-at-ps40m-london-mansion-467116">David Beckham and family left ‘shaken’ after burglary at £40m London mansion</a>

"It has been two years since the club has been able to travel on an international pre-season tour, so we can’t wait to get going this summer and reconnect with our fans in south-east Asia and Australasia," said chief operating officer Collette Roche.

United are sixth in the Premier League on 50 points after 29 matches. They host Leicester City on Saturday.

Manchester United will face rivals Liverpool as part of their pre-season tour to Thailand and Australia in July, the Premier League club announced on Thursday. United will meet Liverpool in Bangkok on July 12 before flying to Australia to play A-League team Melbourne Victory on July 15 and Crystal Palace four days later.

Manchester United will face rivals Liverpool as part of their pre-season tour to Thailand and Australia in July, the Premier League club announced on Thursday. United will meet Liverpool in Bangkok on July 12 before flying to Australia to play A-League team Melbourne Victory on July 15 and Crystal Palace four days later. The popular Melbourne Cricket Ground will host those matches. ALSO READ: David Beckham and family left ‘shaken’ after burglary at £40m London mansion "It has been two years since the club has been able to travel on an international pre-season tour, so we can’t wait to get going this summer and reconnect with our fans in south-east Asia and Australasia," said chief operating officer Collette Roche. United are sixth in the Premier League on 50 points after 29 matches. They host Leicester City on Saturday.

Manchester United to face arch-rivals Liverpool on pre-season tour to Thailand, Australia

India's ace shuttler PV Sindhu on Saturday entered the women's singles final of the Swiss Open 2022 at St. Jakobshalle here.

Playing at court 1, Sindhu defeated Thailand's Supanida Katethong 21-18, 15-21, 21-19, in the semi-final match that lasted for 79 minutes.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/swiss-open-kidambi-srikanth-beats-denmarks-anders-antonsen-to-enter-mens-singles-semi-final-465735">Swiss Open: Kidambi Srikanth beats Denmark's Anders Antonsen to enter men's singles semi-final</a>

Apart from Sindhu, shuttler HS Prannoy also made his place in the finals of the tournament after winning against Indonesia's Anthony Sinisuka Ginting 21-19, 19-21, 21-18 in the match that lasted for 72 minutes.

Later in the day, shuttler Kidmabi Srikanth will face Indonesia's Jonatan Christie in another men's singles semi-final clash.

India's ace shuttler PV Sindhu on Saturday entered the women's singles final of the Swiss Open 2022 at St. Jakobshalle here. Playing at court 1, Sindhu defeated Thailand's Supanida Katethong 21-18, 15-21, 21-19, in the semi-final match that lasted for 79 minutes.

India's ace shuttler PV Sindhu on Saturday entered the women's singles final of the Swiss Open 2022 at St. Jakobshalle here. Playing at court 1, Sindhu defeated Thailand's Supanida Katethong 21-18, 15-21, 21-19, in the semi-final match that lasted for 79 minutes. ALSO READ: Swiss Open: Kidambi Srikanth beats Denmark's Anders Antonsen to enter men's singles semi-final Apart from Sindhu, shuttler HS Prannoy also made his place in the finals of the tournament after winning against Indonesia's Anthony Sinisuka Ginting 21-19, 19-21, 21-18 in the match that lasted for 72 minutes. Later in the day, shuttler Kidmabi Srikanth will face Indonesia's Jonatan Christie in another men's singles semi-final clash.

Swiss Open: Double Olympic medallist PV Sindhu defeats Supanida Katethong to enter women's singles final

After losing two years to the COVID-19 pandemic, shopkeepers in the heart of the Turkish Riviera had hoped for a strong tourism season this year to help keep their businesses afloat. But Russia's war in Ukraine is fast dampening their spirits.

We're trying to earn our bread through tourism, but it looks like the war has finished off this (tourism) season, too, Devrim Akcay said outside his clothing shop in the resort town of Belek, along the Mediterranean coast's Antalya province.

Nowhere is the threat of just one ripple effect of the war&nbsp;lost tourism&nbsp;felt more strongly than in Antalya, a region dotted with shimmering beaches and archeological sites where visitors from Russia and Ukraine, along with Germany, make up the top contributors to tourism revenue.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-central-bank-governor-wanted-to-resign-over-ukraine-putin-refused-report-465185">Russia's central bank governor wanted to resign over Ukraine, Putin refused: Report</a>

Countries from Turkey to Thailand, Egypt and Cuba are bracing for the loss of Russian and Ukrainian visitors just as their travel sectors were looking to rebound from the pandemic. With many tourist-dependent economies also struggling with surging inflation and other woes, hotel workers, guides and others who serve visitors from the two warring nations expect more pain.

The turquoise waters and white sand beaches of the Cuban resort of Varadero, which until recently received a significant number of tourists mainly Russians are now almost empty.

Russians accounted for almost a third of Cuba's visitors last year more than 146,000&nbsp;and some saw them as the way to get some oxygen to an industry ailing from the pandemic and tighter sanctions imposed by former U.S. President Donald Trump.

Now, we also have to get by without the Russian tourism,&nbsp;said Jos&nbsp;Luis Perell&nbsp;Cabrera, a Cuban economist and tourism expert. 
The Association of Tour Operators of Russia estimated that between 6,000 and 8,000 Russian tourists were on the island when the war in Ukraine broke out. Several flights left from Varadero in early March to bring them home.

Losing that market is a strong blow to Cuba, said Natasha Strelkova, Russian-Cuban tour operator and guide on the island.

Across the Atlantic, Russians and Ukrainians can represent up to 35% of Egypt's tourists annually, said Hisham el-Demiry, former head of the government-run Tourism Development Authority.

He worries the economic crisis brought on by the war could mean fewer guests overall.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-are-a-nuclear-power-why-not-top-russian-diplomat-over-ukraine-invasion-465180">'We are a nuclear power, why not?': Top Russian diplomat over Ukraine invasion</a>

It's a huge impact, a domino effect. ... The war has changed people's priorities, and tourism, which is a very sensitive industry, will be the first victim,&nbsp;he said.

Rania Ali, a reception manager at a four-star hotel in Hurghada, said they were over 75% occupied early before the war, now we are just 35%.&nbsp;Russians were just among the top 10 groups of visitors to Thailand until late last year, when the country began to reopen to international tourists. Russia restarted charter flights relatively early and in winter, when Thailand's balmy temperatures make it a highly desirable destination, helping its people become the top visitors among the modest numbers that Thailand started welcoming back.

The November-to-March season when Russians usually visit is drawing to an end, and the plunge in the ruble's value makes travel to Thailand and anywhere else far more costly now, said Chattan Kunjira Na Ayudhya, deputy governor for International Marketing for the Tourism Authority of Thailand.

This probably will lead Russian tourists to shift to destinations that offer them all-inclusive packages with better prices,&nbsp;he said.

In Turkey, officials had hoped that with pandemic restrictions easing, tourism could replicate or exceed the numbers from 2019, when some 52 million visitors&nbsp;including about 7 million Russians and 1.6 million Ukrainians &nbsp;brought $34 billion in revenue. The overall number of visitors dropped to 15 million in 2020 but recovered to around 29 million last year.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan had strategized that opening up the economy and delivering big growth this year could help him get reelected next year, experts say. It's a tall order for a country with a currency crisis and inflation exceeding 54%, making it difficult for consumers to purchase even basic goods.

For that to happen, Turkey needs to have its robust tourism and trade ties with Russia unhindered,&nbsp;said Soner Cagaptay, a Turkey analyst at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-calls-for-ukraine-ceasefire-offers-mediation-by-china-and-islamic-nations-465100">Pakistan calls for Ukraine ceasefire, offers mediation by China and Islamic nations</a>

The expectation before the war was maybe 10, 15 million Russians would be visiting Turkey this summer that will be spending 10 billion dollars, a shot in the arm for Turkey's ailing economy," Cagaptay said.

Now, business groups say they're seeing erosion in trade both ways, including a fall in demand for Turkish produce because Russian buyers are struggling to make payments. That's despite Turkey not joining in sanctions against Moscow.

Agricultural grower and exporter Nevzat Akcan worries he may not be able to ship the red bell peppers he grows in greenhouses in the district of Aksu solely for Russian and Ukrainian markets.

May God protect us if we join the sanctions against Russia. This would be a disaster for Turkish agriculture. We would be ruined and finished," Akcan said. I don't even want to think about it.&nbsp;NATO-member Turkey, which has cultivated close ties with both Russia and Ukraine, is trying to balance those relations and has positioned itself as a neutral party trying to mediate. Turkey has criticized Russia's military actions in Ukraine as unacceptable but also said it would not give up on either side.

The Antalya region is haunted by the memory of 2016, when Russia inflicted a serious blow to Turkey's economy by barring the import of some agricultural produce and stopping charter flights there after the Turkish military shot down a Russian fighter plane in 2015.

Agriculture has already started to suffer from the effects of the war, said Davut Cetin, head of the Antalya Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

The Ukrainian market has been shut down. No fresh fruit or vegetable is leaving for Ukraine now, Cetin said.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Russia expels several American diplomats in tit-for-tat move

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-expels-several-american-diplomats-in-tit-for-tat-move-465102/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

After losing two years to the COVID-19 pandemic, shopkeepers in the heart of the Turkish Riviera had hoped for a strong tourism season this year to help keep their businesses afloat.

After losing two years to the COVID-19 pandemic, shopkeepers in the heart of the Turkish Riviera had hoped for a strong tourism season this year to help keep their businesses afloat. But Russia's war in Ukraine is fast dampening their spirits. We're trying to earn our bread through tourism, but it looks like the war has finished off this (tourism) season, too, Devrim Akcay said outside his clothing shop in the resort town of Belek, along the Mediterranean coast's Antalya province. Nowhere is the threat of just one ripple effect of the war lost tourism felt more strongly than in Antalya, a region dotted with shimmering beaches and archeological sites where visitors from Russia and Ukraine, along with Germany, make up the top contributors to tourism revenue. Also read | Russia's central bank governor wanted to resign over Ukraine, Putin refused: Report Countries from Turkey to Thailand, Egypt and Cuba are bracing for the loss of Russian and Ukrainian visitors just as their travel sectors were looking to rebound from the pandemic. With many tourist-dependent economies also struggling with surging inflation and other woes, hotel workers, guides and others who serve visitors from the two warring nations expect more pain. The turquoise waters and white sand beaches of the Cuban resort of Varadero, which until recently received a significant number of tourists mainly Russians are now almost empty. Russians accounted for almost a third of Cuba's visitors last year more than 146,000 and some saw them as the way to get some oxygen to an industry ailing from the pandemic and tighter sanctions imposed by former U.S. President Donald Trump. Now, we also have to get by without the Russian tourism, said Jos Luis Perell Cabrera, a Cuban economist and tourism expert. The Association of Tour Operators of Russia estimated that between 6,000 and 8,000 Russian tourists were on the island when the war in Ukraine broke out. Several flights left from Varadero in early March to bring them home. Losing that market is a strong blow to Cuba, said Natasha Strelkova, Russian-Cuban tour operator and guide on the island. Across the Atlantic, Russians and Ukrainians can represent up to 35% of Egypt's tourists annually, said Hisham el-Demiry, former head of the government-run Tourism Development Authority. He worries the economic crisis brought on by the war could mean fewer guests overall. Also read | 'We are a nuclear power, why not?': Top Russian diplomat over Ukraine invasion It's a huge impact, a domino effect. ... The war has changed people's priorities, and tourism, which is a very sensitive industry, will be the first victim, he said. Rania Ali, a reception manager at a four-star hotel in Hurghada, said they were over 75% occupied early before the war, now we are just 35%. Russians were just among the top 10 groups of visitors to Thailand until late last year, when the country began to reopen to international tourists. Russia restarted charter flights relatively early and in winter, when Thailand's balmy temperatures make it a highly desirable destination, helping its people become the top visitors among the modest numbers that Thailand started welcoming back. The November-to-March season when Russians usually visit is drawing to an end, and the plunge in the ruble's value makes travel to Thailand and anywhere else far more costly now, said Chattan Kunjira Na Ayudhya, deputy governor for International Marketing for the Tourism Authority of Thailand. This probably will lead Russian tourists to shift to destinations that offer them all-inclusive packages with better prices, he said. In Turkey, officials had hoped that with pandemic restrictions easing, tourism could replicate or exceed the numbers from 2019, when some 52 million visitors including about 7 million Russians and 1.6 million Ukrainians brought $34 billion in revenue. The overall number of visitors dropped to 15 million in 2020 but recovered to around 29 million last year. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan had strategized that opening up the economy and delivering big growth this year could help him get reelected next year, experts say. It's a tall order for a country with a currency crisis and inflation exceeding 54%, making it difficult for consumers to purchase even basic goods. For that to happen, Turkey needs to have its robust tourism and trade ties with Russia unhindered, said Soner Cagaptay, a Turkey analyst at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy. Also read | Pakistan calls for Ukraine ceasefire, offers mediation by China and Islamic nations The expectation before the war was maybe 10, 15 million Russians would be visiting Turkey this summer that will be spending 10 billion dollars, a shot in the arm for Turkey's ailing economy," Cagaptay said. Now, business groups say they're seeing erosion in trade both ways, including a fall in demand for Turkish produce because Russian buyers are struggling to make payments. That's despite Turkey not joining in sanctions against Moscow. Agricultural grower and exporter Nevzat Akcan worries he may not be able to ship the red bell peppers he grows in greenhouses in the district of Aksu solely for Russian and Ukrainian markets. May God protect us if we join the sanctions against Russia. This would be a disaster for Turkish agriculture. We would be ruined and finished," Akcan said. I don't even want to think about it. NATO-member Turkey, which has cultivated close ties with both Russia and Ukraine, is trying to balance those relations and has positioned itself as a neutral party trying to mediate. Turkey has criticized Russia's military actions in Ukraine as unacceptable but also said it would not give up on either side. The Antalya region is haunted by the memory of 2016, when Russia inflicted a serious blow to Turkey's economy by barring the import of some agricultural produce and stopping charter flights there after the Turkish military shot down a Russian fighter plane in 2015. Agriculture has already started to suffer from the effects of the war, said Davut Cetin, head of the Antalya Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The Ukrainian market has been shut down. No fresh fruit or vegetable is leaving for Ukraine now, Cetin said. Watch | Russia expels several American diplomats in tit-for-tat move

Countries brace for hit to tourism from Russia-Ukraine war

Travellers to Thailand will no longer have to take a Covid-19 test before boarding the plane, under plans announced Friday as part of efforts to reboot the kingdom's pandemic-battered tourism sector.

Visitors will still need to take a RT-PCR test upon arrival and a self-administered rapid antigen test on the fifth day in the country, said Taweesin Visanuyothin, a spokesperson for the government’s Centre for COVID-19 Situation Administration.

Draconian travel curbs helped Thailand limit Covid-19 case numbers and deaths in the early stages of the pandemic, but hammered its crucial tourism industry, which accounts for about a fifth of the country's economy.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/robber-who-became-a-monk-fascinating-tale-of-a-diamond-theft-murders-that-led-saudi-thailand-to-snap-ties-448042">Also read |&nbsp;Robber who became a monk: Fascinating tale of a diamond theft, murders that led Saudi, Thailand to snap ties</a>

Thailand is keen to restore its lucrative tourism sector, which took a nosedive when most arrivals from overseas dried up since April 2020.

The country is currently recording around 25,000 new cases of Covid a day as the Omicron variant spreads around the country, but officials hope this will tail off in time for them to move to a "post-pandemic" phase from July.

Seeking to bounce back from its worst economic performance since the 1997 Asian financial crisis, Thailand has gradually eased travel restrictions over the past nine months.

But hotels, restaurants and other tourist-dependent businesses have urged the government to go further and faster to entice visitors back to the kingdom's beaches and resorts.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-exclusively-speaks-to-former-ambassador-of-india-to-thailand-over-asean-india-summit-259602/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The tourism industry estimates that around five million foreign visitors will travel to Thailand in 2022, down from nearly 40 million in the year before the pandemic.

Neighboring Cambodia, whose tourism industry was similarly battered, announced Thursday that fully vaccinated passengers are no longer required to have a RT-PCR test before arrival. It also removed the need for a rapid antigen test upon arrival.

The health authorities are concerned about the potential for the spread of the virus next month during the Songkran festival, a raucous holiday that celebrates the Thai New Year.

They have prohibited the traditional splashing of water in the streets and other public areas, and banned the selling and consumption of alcohol at public celebrations.

A major threat from the holiday is mass travel from the cities to home villages in rural provinces. The practice was a huge problem last year, when most Thais had not yet been vaccinated.

Thailand has administered 126 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines. At least 54.6 million people, more than 78% of the population, have been vaccinated with at least one jab. Fifty million people have received at least two jabs, and 22 million received booster doses.

(With inputs from agencies)

Travellers to Thailand will no longer have to take a Covid-19 test before boarding the plane, under plans announced Friday as part of efforts to reboot the kingdom's pandemic-battered tourism sector.

Travellers to Thailand will no longer have to take a Covid-19 test before boarding the plane, under plans announced Friday as part of efforts to reboot the kingdom's pandemic-battered tourism sector. Visitors will still need to take a RT-PCR test upon arrival and a self-administered rapid antigen test on the fifth day in the country, said Taweesin Visanuyothin, a spokesperson for the government’s Centre for COVID-19 Situation Administration. Draconian travel curbs helped Thailand limit Covid-19 case numbers and deaths in the early stages of the pandemic, but hammered its crucial tourism industry, which accounts for about a fifth of the country's economy. Also read | Robber who became a monk: Fascinating tale of a diamond theft, murders that led Saudi, Thailand to snap ties Thailand is keen to restore its lucrative tourism sector, which took a nosedive when most arrivals from overseas dried up since April 2020. The country is currently recording around 25,000 new cases of Covid a day as the Omicron variant spreads around the country, but officials hope this will tail off in time for them to move to a "post-pandemic" phase from July. Seeking to bounce back from its worst economic performance since the 1997 Asian financial crisis, Thailand has gradually eased travel restrictions over the past nine months. But hotels, restaurants and other tourist-dependent businesses have urged the government to go further and faster to entice visitors back to the kingdom's beaches and resorts. The tourism industry estimates that around five million foreign visitors will travel to Thailand in 2022, down from nearly 40 million in the year before the pandemic. Neighboring Cambodia, whose tourism industry was similarly battered, announced Thursday that fully vaccinated passengers are no longer required to have a RT-PCR test before arrival. It also removed the need for a rapid antigen test upon arrival. The health authorities are concerned about the potential for the spread of the virus next month during the Songkran festival, a raucous holiday that celebrates the Thai New Year. They have prohibited the traditional splashing of water in the streets and other public areas, and banned the selling and consumption of alcohol at public celebrations. A major threat from the holiday is mass travel from the cities to home villages in rural provinces. The practice was a huge problem last year, when most Thais had not yet been vaccinated. Thailand has administered 126 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines. At least 54.6 million people, more than 78% of the population, have been vaccinated with at least one jab. Fifty million people have received at least two jabs, and 22 million received booster doses. (With inputs from agencies)

Thailand drops pre-arrival COVID-19 test for foreign visitors

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