Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Tuesday (Dec 09) ordered authorities to demolish the Romeo Lane beach shack in Vagator, owned by brothers Saurabh Luthra and Gaurav Luthra, as law enforcement agencies widened their investigation into the Arpora nightclub inferno that claimed the lives of 25 people and left many injured. The district administration sealed the Romeo Lane restaurant in the Vagator area of Goa, ahead of the demolition drive.&nbsp;The order comes after the brother fled to Thailand, just hours after a massive blaze killed 25 people at the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Arpora around midnight on Saturday. The Luthra brothers owned the club along with two other properties in Goa, including the shack in Vagator.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/goa-nightclub-tragedy-manager-of-club-arrested-warrant-issued-against-owners-1765096404219">Goa nightclub tragedy: Manager of club arrested, warrant issued against owners</a>&nbsp;The Bureau of Immigration issued a lookout circular (LOC) against Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra at the request of the Goa police, while Interpol has served a Blue notice against them, according to the CM's office.&nbsp;The brothers boarded a New Delhi-Phuket flight hours after the tragedy on Sunday at 5:30 am, as per the Goa police. Indian authorities are coordinating with Thai officials to geolocate the Luthra duo in Phuket and have requested their deportation based on an arrest warrant. Police squads searched their north Delhi home but were unable to find them.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-goa-nightclub-blaze-delhi-hospitality-sector-under-lens-as-only-52-hotels-38-clubs-have-fire-safety-clearance-1765274277498">After Goa nightclub blaze, Delhi hospitality sector under lens as only 52 hotels &amp; 38 clubs have fire safety clearance</a>&nbsp;Earlier, the Goa CM ordered a magisterial-level inquiry into the incident and constituted a panel to investigate the cause of the blaze and asked to submit a report within a week.&nbsp;On Sunday, the police registered a First Information Report (FIR) against the owners of the club, managers and event organisers and arrested four people, including the club's chief general manager and three other staff members. The Goa police also detained and questioned &nbsp;Roshan Redkar, the Sarpach of Arpora-Nagoa panchayat, who had issued the trade license of the club.&nbsp;

Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra fled to Thailand soon after a late-Saturday fire gutted their nightclub-cum-restaurant, Birch by Romeo Lane.

Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Tuesday (Dec 09) ordered authorities to demolish the Romeo Lane beach shack in Vagator, owned by brothers Saurabh Luthra and Gaurav Luthra, as law enforcement agencies widened their investigation into the Arpora nightclub inferno that claimed the lives of 25 people and left many injured. The district administration sealed the Romeo Lane restaurant in the Vagator area of Goa, ahead of the demolition drive. The order comes after the brother fled to Thailand, just hours after a massive blaze killed 25 people at the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Arpora around midnight on Saturday. The Luthra brothers owned the club along with two other properties in Goa, including the shack in Vagator. Also Read: Goa nightclub tragedy: Manager of club arrested, warrant issued against owners The Bureau of Immigration issued a lookout circular (LOC) against Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra at the request of the Goa police, while Interpol has served a Blue notice against them, according to the CM's office. The brothers boarded a New Delhi-Phuket flight hours after the tragedy on Sunday at 5:30 am, as per the Goa police. Indian authorities are coordinating with Thai officials to geolocate the Luthra duo in Phuket and have requested their deportation based on an arrest warrant. Police squads searched their north Delhi home but were unable to find them. Also Read: After Goa nightclub blaze, Delhi hospitality sector under lens as only 52 hotels & 38 clubs have fire safety clearance Earlier, the Goa CM ordered a magisterial-level inquiry into the incident and constituted a panel to investigate the cause of the blaze and asked to submit a report within a week. On Sunday, the police registered a First Information Report (FIR) against the owners of the club, managers and event organisers and arrested four people, including the club's chief general manager and three other staff members. The Goa police also detained and questioned Roshan Redkar, the Sarpach of Arpora-Nagoa panchayat, who had issued the trade license of the club.

Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra fled to Thailand soon after a late-Saturday fire gutted their nightclub-cum-restaurant, Birch by Romeo Lane.

Goa nightclub inferno: CM Sawant orders demolition of Luthra's Romeo Lane beach shack in Vagator

Fresh clashes have erupted along the Thailand–Cambodia border as tensions flare once again in the long-disputed region. According to initial reports, Thailand has launched air strikes targeting areas close to the contested border zone, triggering immediate military responses and raising fears of a wider conflict.

Thailand-Cambodia Clashes: Six Cambodian Civilians, One Thai Soldier Killed in Clashes

Thai Jets Bombard Cambodia as Deadly Border Clashes Escalate

Fresh clashes have erupted along the Thailand–Cambodia border as tensions flare once again in the long-disputed region. According to initial reports, Thailand has launched air strikes targeting areas close to the contested border zone, triggering immediate military responses and raising fears of a wider conflict.


Trump's peace plan in danger of collapse? Reports claim one Thai soldier, 4 Cambodians killed 

Thailand-Cambodia clashes: Thailand launches air strikes against Cambodia in border flare-up

Thailand Launches Air Strikes Against Cambodia Along Disputed Border

Thailand authorities on Wednesday (December 3) announced that it has seized assets worth over $300 million, including stakes in a major energy company, and have issued arrest warrants for 42 individuals tied to regional online fraud networks. Southeast Asia, particularly areas near the Thailand-Myanmar-Cambodia border, has become a centre for online scams, with criminal groups raking in billions through illegal operations, including human trafficking. Victims are often forced to work in these fraudulent companies.&nbsp;The crackdown targets Chinese-Cambodian businessman Chen Zhi, head of the Prince Group, a company sanctioned by the US, along with two other Cambodian nationals, Kok An and Yim Leak, who are allegedly involved in large-scale fraud operations. Prince Group did not respond to comment requests, and Chen, who is also facing a US indictment, could not be reached for comment. The group has denied any illegal activities in the past. News agency Reuters was unable to contact Kok An or Yim Leak, and they have yet to address the allegations publicly.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meta-removes-account-of-500-00-teens-ahead-of-social-media-ban-in-australia-starting-from-december-10-1764844483364">Meta removes account of 500,000 teens ahead of social media ban in Australia starting from December 10</a>&nbsp;In the past two months, authorities in Hong Kong and Singapore froze or seized assets linked to the Prince Group worth $354 million and $116 million, respectively, following sanctions from the US and UK for running scam centers. In October, the US Department of Justice indicted Chen for his alleged role in a wire fraud and money laundering conspiracy tied to forced-labor scam operations across Cambodia. Prince Group denied these allegations, calling them without merit.&nbsp;Another individual of interest, Yim Leak, is reportedly connected to a powerful criminal network in Cambodia, which allegedly carried out fraudulent money transfers. Thai authorities have seized trading accounts linked to Yim Leak, including shares in Bangchak Corporation worth 6 billion baht ($188 million). Bangchak, in its statement, confirmed that the seizure was related to an individual shareholder and assured that its operations remain unaffected. Additionally, Thai officials allege that Kok An, another key figure, has been using illicit funds to acquire assets in Thailand, with links to facilities in Cambodia tied to his operations.

Thailand cyberscam crackdown: $300M in assets seized, 42 arrest warrants issued

Thailand authorities on Wednesday (December 3) announced that it has seized assets worth over $300 million, including stakes in a major energy company, and have issued arrest warrants for 42 individuals tied to regional online fraud networks. Southeast Asia, particularly areas near the Thailand-Myanmar-Cambodia border, has become a centre for online scams, with criminal groups raking in billions through illegal operations, including human trafficking. Victims are often forced to work in these fraudulent companies. The crackdown targets Chinese-Cambodian businessman Chen Zhi, head of the Prince Group, a company sanctioned by the US, along with two other Cambodian nationals, Kok An and Yim Leak, who are allegedly involved in large-scale fraud operations. Prince Group did not respond to comment requests, and Chen, who is also facing a US indictment, could not be reached for comment. The group has denied any illegal activities in the past. News agency Reuters was unable to contact Kok An or Yim Leak, and they have yet to address the allegations publicly. Also Read: Meta removes account of 500,000 teens ahead of social media ban in Australia starting from December 10 In the past two months, authorities in Hong Kong and Singapore froze or seized assets linked to the Prince Group worth $354 million and $116 million, respectively, following sanctions from the US and UK for running scam centers. In October, the US Department of Justice indicted Chen for his alleged role in a wire fraud and money laundering conspiracy tied to forced-labor scam operations across Cambodia. Prince Group denied these allegations, calling them without merit. Another individual of interest, Yim Leak, is reportedly connected to a powerful criminal network in Cambodia, which allegedly carried out fraudulent money transfers. Thai authorities have seized trading accounts linked to Yim Leak, including shares in Bangchak Corporation worth 6 billion baht ($188 million). Bangchak, in its statement, confirmed that the seizure was related to an individual shareholder and assured that its operations remain unaffected. Additionally, Thai officials allege that Kok An, another key figure, has been using illicit funds to acquire assets in Thailand, with links to facilities in Cambodia tied to his operations.

Thailand has seized over $300M in assets linked to online scams and human trafficking, issuing arrest warrants for 42 individuals, including key figures from Cambodia

More than 1,000 people have died and thousands were left stranded after heavy monsoon rains, exacerbated by a tropical storm and supercharged by climate change, wreaked havoc across three nations in Southeast Asia last week.


South Asia floods: Over 500 killed in Indonesia, 340 in Sri Lanka, 170 in Thailand 

Torrential rains and landslides have ravaged sri lanka, indonesia, thailand, and malaysia, claiming thousands of lives and displacing many...

The death toll is expected to rise further and there are reports of widespread destruction and damage to infrastructure across the three nations..

South Asia Chaos: Floods Hit Sri Lanka, Thailand, Indonesia 

More than 900 people have died and thousands were left stranded after heavy monsoon rains, exacerbated by a tropical storm and supercharged by climate change, wreaked havoc across three nations in Southeast Asia last week.

Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Thailand Hit by Deadly Floods | 900+ Killed

Thailand is making a major push to deepen ties with India — from investment and defence cooperation to expanding trade and tourism links. As cyber-scam networks continue to target Indian citizens across Southeast Asia, both sides are also working together to counter cross-border crime and protect victims.
In an exclusive conversation with WION’s Sidhant Sibal, Thailand’s Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow outlines the roadmap for stronger bilateral relations, Thailand’s expectations from India, and how both nations plan to jointly tackle cybercrime networks operating in the region.

Thai Foreign Minister: India & Thailand need to work towards peace in Myanmar

More than 900 people have died and thousands were left stranded after heavy monsoon rains, exacerbated by a tropical storm and supercharged by climate change, wreaked havoc across three nations in Southeast Asia last week.


Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Thailand ravaged by floods, landslides, over 900 killed 

Thailand is making a major push to deepen ties with India — from investment and defence cooperation to expanding trade and tourism links. As cyber-scam networks continue to target Indian citizens across Southeast Asia, both sides are also working together to counter cross-border crime and protect victims.

In an exclusive conversation with WION’s Sidhant Sibal, Thailand’s Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow outlines the roadmap for stronger bilateral relations, Thailand’s expectations from India, and how both nations plan to jointly tackle cybercrime networks operating in the region.

WION's Siddhant Sibbal Speaks to Thai Foreign Minister on Myanmar & More

Thailand’s Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow has described bilateral relations with India as “excellent” and “robust”, with both countries determined to expand cooperation in trade, defence and tackling transnational cyber-scams. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, the minister highlighted the growing menace of cross-border online scam syndicates operating along Thailand’s borders with Myanmar and Cambodia. He revealed that Bangkok recently repatriated around 1,000 Indian victims and announced an international conference on 17 December in Bangkok to galvanise global action. “This is a grave threat to all of us… We must demonstrate political will and mobilise international efforts,” he said, calling for greater intelligence-sharing to dismantle criminal networks.&nbsp;On the economic front, FM Sihasak expressed confidence that the $30 billion bilateral trade target by 2030 is achievable, citing India’s rapid growth and opportunities in food security, health, wellness and green technology. He urged India to reconsider joining the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and stressed the need for upgraded connectivity projects, including the stalled India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway.&nbsp;Defence ties are also deepening, with Thailand already procuring Indian armoured vehicles and munitions, and both navies conducting joint exercises to ensure maritime security in the wider Indo-Pacific region. The minister underlined shared Buddhist heritage and booming Indian tourism, with over two million visitors annually, as enduring pillars of the relationship. Full interview<h2>Your Excellency, how would you characterise the current state of India-Thailand relations?</h2>The relationship is excellent, and I think it's going forward with opportunities for closer cooperation in many areas. We have a strategic partnership. A strategic partnership means that it's not just the bilateral issues, bilateral relations, but we're working together to promote regional peace and stability and prosperity, also working together to address common global challenges like climate change, pandemics, human trafficking, and so many other issues. So it's a very robust relationship, and I see there's a lot of potential for cooperation and partnership going forward.<h2>On the issue of cross-border online scam syndicates, Thailand has helped repatriate many Indian victims; what has been Thailand’s role and what remains the biggest concern regarding these cyber-scam centres?</h2> Well, it's not just a problem for any particular country. It's become a problem with regional and international dimensions, and we see you know these scam operations operating along the Thai-Myanmar border, along the Thai Cambodian border, and this particular regard to Myanmar, it is due to the instability in the country. Unfortunately, we have people who have been lured into working for these operations, some of course, knowingly, have gone there in the hope of making money. But, these operations are a grave threat to all of us. People are being robbed of their life savings by this scam and scammers, so we really have to do something about it.&nbsp;&nbsp;Thailand believes that it's time that we demonstrate the political will, and mobilise international efforts to deal with this problem. We are hosting a major international conference on the 17th of December in Bangkok. So we hope that at that meeting, we can discuss this at the highest level, and hopefully, we can work on what we can. We must ensure that these frameworks and processes are consolidated and work together. So this is what we're hoping for. But the point is that we have victims from many countries. Indians are among the victims. We have a large number of them. We just helped recently with the repatriation of about 1000 Indians back to where they came from in India.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-air-force-evacuates-over-50-people-from-flood-hit-sri-lanka-including-pakistani-and-bangladeshi-nationals-1764509596752">Indian Air Force evacuates over 50 people from flood-hit Sri Lanka, including Pakistani and Bangladeshi nationals</a>&nbsp;<h2>What kind of conversations have both sides had on this particular issue? We know that the Indian ambassador has met you on this particular issue, and also perhaps you've invited India to the upcoming meeting which you're going to host.</h2>Immediate concern is to provide assistance to help them return to wherever they came from. But also, we need information on who the perpetrators are. What kind of networks have they been able to utilise? So what is important is that we should have more information sharing, sharing of intelligence, so that we really can get to the bottom of all this.<h2>And who do you think is the perpetrator in this particular case, any group which you are worried about?</h2> Well, I don't want to assign any particular nationality, because these are criminals. And we have criminals in every country, and so criminals are working together to make these scams and scam operations possible.<h2>How do Thailand, India plan to increase their trade at a time when we have seen changes when it comes to global trading arrangements?</h2> Well, we first have to do more bilaterally. Bilateral means having more exchange visits between the private sector. We also have to work together to see where the impediments are, and then we have to work together in terms of promotional activities. I see enormous potential in trading relationships; in our economic ties, we just have to work harder at it. But having said that, not just working bilaterally right now, we should also work to promote regional free trade at a time when the multilateral trading system is being challenged. You know what these challenges are: challenges of unilateralism, protectionism, and unilateral tariffs. Thailand and India should not just be working bilaterally for more trade, more investment, but also we should be working at the regional level to ensure that trade remains free.&nbsp;&nbsp;There are many ways that we can work together regionally. There's the India ASEAN Free Trade Agreement. Let's see what we can do to upgrade it. We also have the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, RCEP. India took part in negotiations throughout, but at the end, decided to opt out. We don't question India's intention. Of course, it's a decision for India to make. We do hope that India will join RCEP, because it's something that will benefit the region and definitely benefit India. We understand the concern of India, but still, India is such an important economic powerhouse in the region, and so there is much that we can do bilaterally, a lot that we can do regionally, at a time when we're facing the common challenge of the decline of the multilateral trading system under the WTO.<h2>Plans to have the trade to $30 billion by 2030, I believe. Are you hopeful that India and Thailand will be able to achieve that?</h2> Given the growth of India, the economic growth rate of India, and the size of your economy, I think we can achieve that goal. Again, let's look at where the impediments are, and where the opportunities are for us to trade more. &nbsp;I see that the target that we have set is not beyond reach, but trade is only part of the economic relations. I'd like to see more investment. Investment also helps to create more trade between our two countries. Thailand has an economy that is in transition. We want to go towards more innovation, more digitalisation, and a greener economy.&nbsp;&nbsp;There are many areas where we can work together, such as, first is Thailand wants to be a food hub, and this is where there's a tremendous demand for food products. So maybe we can work together in this area. Another area where Thailand and India can work together is in the health and wellness. Thailand has some of the best hospitals in the world. You are very strong in the pharmaceutical industry, why not look at opportunities for closer collaboration? Connectivity is also another area. There is much more that we can do in terms of connectivity, and connectivity will enhance trade.<h2>Any update on the India-Myanmar-Thailand trilateral highway?</h2> The segment in Thailand is completed. We have financed a certain segment within Myanmar. India's part has been done. India is helping also to finance part of this segment in Myanmar, but the project has been stalled because we know why, because of the situation. So that's why we're hoping that the situation will return to normalcy soon, and so that we can continue to work on the trilateral highway project, so that it can be completed. And another project is the coastal shipping project, connecting the various main ports along the course from Thailand to Myanmar to Bangladesh to India.<h2>Moving forward to the defence relationship, what's your view on that?</h2>The defence cooperation helps us to ensure that we are prepared in terms of defence, and we also look to India as a source of defence supplies, of defence equipment, weapons, and also these joint exercises, whether it's between our armed forces, our naval forces. I think it serves to enhance our preparedness in terms of defence and security. Another area is maritime security; we share a common interest in ensuring that the sea lanes of communication and transport and commerce, connecting the Pacific Ocean with the Indian Ocean, are kept free and open.<h2>Any specific assets you are looking to import from India?</h2>Well, we always think in terms of efficiency, effectiveness and cost. Up to now, I think the weapons that we have purchased from India, mainly military vehicles, armoured vehicles, and maybe some munitions.<h2>Where do you see the future of the India-Thailand tourism relationship?&nbsp;</h2>Well, tourism is a very important sector of the Thai economy. The Thai economy is driven by two important sectors, the trade exports in particular, and also tourism. India has been an important source of tourism for Thailand. We have over 2 million tourists from India coming to enjoy the various sites in Thailand each year, and we are very happy that the number is growing. And I'm always amazed by the size of the Indian weddings held in Thailand. You know, it's not just the bride and bridegroom. You have the whole family, not from one side, but both sides, coming to celebrate Thailand, and so we hope that there'll be more of this kind of tourism in addition to the regular tourism that we have from India.<h2>How do you see India's Act East Policy working in terms of India's growing engagement with ASEAN countries, especially Thailand?&nbsp;</h2> Well, it was "Look east". Now it's "Act East". And for us, it is "Act West" before we "Look West". So we have to act in terms of concrete actions on what to do. And again, it's not just bilaterally. First of all, we welcome the engagement of India, economically, strategically in the ASEAN region, and India is a very important dialogue partner. There is another framework that brings about the convergence of India's Look East policy and Thailand's Look West policy, which is BIMSTEC. And with regard to BIMSTEC, it has a lot of potential, but we still have a long way to go. So I think that Thailand and India should be working together more under our respective Act East and Thailand's act West policy.<h2>How hopeful are you about BIMSTEC?</h2>Well, to be very frank, I think we have to really try to quicken the pace, broaden the cooperation, and also make sure that real progress is achieved. I think BIMSTEC has not realised its potential yet. I think South Asia is getting its act together, and Southeast Asia, I think, we remain one of the highest growth areas in the world. And actually, BIMSTEC is not just about the member countries alone. It's about linking South and Southeast Asia. So we really have to do much more. There's been a lot that we've agreed to, such as we have a master plan on connectivity, we have to do more in terms of connectivity, rail, air, land, sea, and also promoting free trade.<h2>One element that combines tourism and connectivity is digital connectivity, the connectivity between India's UBI and Thailand's Prompt Pay. Can we see a day when an Indian tourist, or perhaps a Thai tourist, comes to India and uses their QR code to pay?</h2> Yes, I say that. I hope it will be done very quickly, because, you know, digital payment is going to really promote economic ties and help tourism, and Thailand is already doing that, with countries like Singapore.<h2>Buddhism connect between the two countries. How important is it to both countries?</h2> Yes, I think tourism is one of the pillars of our relationship, the fact that we share so much in common in terms of religion and many Thais come to India for religious pilgrimage. We appreciate that you have kindly offered the relics of the Lord Buddha to allow the people in Thailand be able to show their respect. That is very much appreciated. So Buddhism will be at the core of our relationship. It will remain an important pillar of ties.<h2>The conflict we saw with Cambodia, if you can perhaps brief to the Indian viewers, about the reason for the conflict, and also what is the current status as well, especially after the mediation, which we saw by the US President Donald Trump</h2>Well, it has to do with the border. Borders that have not been clearly demarcated. It has to do with the existence of mines along the border. It has to do with the spread of these illegal crimes, the scam operations. It has to do with encroachment into other territories. And, you know, relations with neighbouring countries, there's a lot of potential, but there always will be problems, and we have to resolve them peacefully, bilaterally. And I guess the issue for us is that sometimes the Cambodians prefer to take many of these bilateral issues internationally, and so we really believe that our two countries should sit down and try to work things out bilaterally. Some of the recent incidents have not helped. They planted a lot of mines along the border. They say that these are old mines, but clearly the evidence proves that they are new mines, and our soldiers have been severely injured by these land mines despite both sides agreeing to do the de-mining.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-and-uk-armies-deepen-ties-as-ajeya-warrior-25-ends-in-rajasthan-1764515748237">India and UK armies deepen ties as Ajeya Warrior-25 ends in Rajasthan</a><h2>But is the ceasefire, which was mediated by the US president, holding or has it been violated?</h2> Right now, it's holding. We don't have any clashes, but when you talk about a ceasefire, it includes the issue of landmines, and the landmines, you know, it's been breached by the Cambodians because they've planted new mines, and these new mines have injured Thai soldiers.<h2>And when you meet with your counterpart, the Indian External Affairs Minister, tomorrow, all these issues will be discussed. Any particular focus area?</h2>We will try to discuss all the issues that we consider to be important, bilaterally, regionally, and internationally. One issue we have to discuss, this issue of the situation in Myanmar, because both of our countries share a common border with Myanmar, and we're concerned about instability in Myanmar. We want to see peace, stability and unity return to the country. &nbsp;Both countries, as neighbouring countries, together with other neighbouring countries, China, Bangladesh and ASEAN, the ASEAN countries, we have to work more closely. We have to align our efforts to ensure that our efforts are going in the same direction towards peace and stability in Myanmar.

Thai FM Sihasak expressed confidence that the $30 billion bilateral trade target by 2030 is achievable, citing India’s rapid growth and opportunities in food security, health, wellness and green technology. He urged India to reconsider joining the RCEP.

Thailand’s Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow has described bilateral relations with India as “excellent” and “robust”, with both countries determined to expand cooperation in trade, defence and tackling transnational cyber-scams. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, the minister highlighted the growing menace of cross-border online scam syndicates operating along Thailand’s borders with Myanmar and Cambodia. He revealed that Bangkok recently repatriated around 1,000 Indian victims and announced an international conference on 17 December in Bangkok to galvanise global action. “This is a grave threat to all of us… We must demonstrate political will and mobilise international efforts,” he said, calling for greater intelligence-sharing to dismantle criminal networks. On the economic front, FM Sihasak expressed confidence that the $30 billion bilateral trade target by 2030 is achievable, citing India’s rapid growth and opportunities in food security, health, wellness and green technology. He urged India to reconsider joining the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and stressed the need for upgraded connectivity projects, including the stalled India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway. Defence ties are also deepening, with Thailand already procuring Indian armoured vehicles and munitions, and both navies conducting joint exercises to ensure maritime security in the wider Indo-Pacific region. The minister underlined shared Buddhist heritage and booming Indian tourism, with over two million visitors annually, as enduring pillars of the relationship. Full interview Your Excellency, how would you characterise the current state of India-Thailand relations? The relationship is excellent, and I think it's going forward with opportunities for closer cooperation in many areas. We have a strategic partnership. A strategic partnership means that it's not just the bilateral issues, bilateral relations, but we're working together to promote regional peace and stability and prosperity, also working together to address common global challenges like climate change, pandemics, human trafficking, and so many other issues. So it's a very robust relationship, and I see there's a lot of potential for cooperation and partnership going forward. On the issue of cross-border online scam syndicates, Thailand has helped repatriate many Indian victims; what has been Thailand’s role and what remains the biggest concern regarding these cyber-scam centres? Well, it's not just a problem for any particular country. It's become a problem with regional and international dimensions, and we see you know these scam operations operating along the Thai-Myanmar border, along the Thai Cambodian border, and this particular regard to Myanmar, it is due to the instability in the country. Unfortunately, we have people who have been lured into working for these operations, some of course, knowingly, have gone there in the hope of making money. But, these operations are a grave threat to all of us. People are being robbed of their life savings by this scam and scammers, so we really have to do something about it. Thailand believes that it's time that we demonstrate the political will, and mobilise international efforts to deal with this problem. We are hosting a major international conference on the 17th of December in Bangkok. So we hope that at that meeting, we can discuss this at the highest level, and hopefully, we can work on what we can. We must ensure that these frameworks and processes are consolidated and work together. So this is what we're hoping for. But the point is that we have victims from many countries. Indians are among the victims. We have a large number of them. We just helped recently with the repatriation of about 1000 Indians back to where they came from in India. Also Read: Indian Air Force evacuates over 50 people from flood-hit Sri Lanka, including Pakistani and Bangladeshi nationals What kind of conversations have both sides had on this particular issue? We know that the Indian ambassador has met you on this particular issue, and also perhaps you've invited India to the upcoming meeting which you're going to host. Immediate concern is to provide assistance to help them return to wherever they came from. But also, we need information on who the perpetrators are. What kind of networks have they been able to utilise? So what is important is that we should have more information sharing, sharing of intelligence, so that we really can get to the bottom of all this. And who do you think is the perpetrator in this particular case, any group which you are worried about? Well, I don't want to assign any particular nationality, because these are criminals. And we have criminals in every country, and so criminals are working together to make these scams and scam operations possible. How do Thailand, India plan to increase their trade at a time when we have seen changes when it comes to global trading arrangements? Well, we first have to do more bilaterally. Bilateral means having more exchange visits between the private sector. We also have to work together to see where the impediments are, and then we have to work together in terms of promotional activities. I see enormous potential in trading relationships; in our economic ties, we just have to work harder at it. But having said that, not just working bilaterally right now, we should also work to promote regional free trade at a time when the multilateral trading system is being challenged. You know what these challenges are: challenges of unilateralism, protectionism, and unilateral tariffs. Thailand and India should not just be working bilaterally for more trade, more investment, but also we should be working at the regional level to ensure that trade remains free. There are many ways that we can work together regionally. There's the India ASEAN Free Trade Agreement. Let's see what we can do to upgrade it. We also have the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, RCEP. India took part in negotiations throughout, but at the end, decided to opt out. We don't question India's intention. Of course, it's a decision for India to make. We do hope that India will join RCEP, because it's something that will benefit the region and definitely benefit India. We understand the concern of India, but still, India is such an important economic powerhouse in the region, and so there is much that we can do bilaterally, a lot that we can do regionally, at a time when we're facing the common challenge of the decline of the multilateral trading system under the WTO. Plans to have the trade to $30 billion by 2030, I believe. Are you hopeful that India and Thailand will be able to achieve that? Given the growth of India, the economic growth rate of India, and the size of your economy, I think we can achieve that goal. Again, let's look at where the impediments are, and where the opportunities are for us to trade more. I see that the target that we have set is not beyond reach, but trade is only part of the economic relations. I'd like to see more investment. Investment also helps to create more trade between our two countries. Thailand has an economy that is in transition. We want to go towards more innovation, more digitalisation, and a greener economy. There are many areas where we can work together, such as, first is Thailand wants to be a food hub, and this is where there's a tremendous demand for food products. So maybe we can work together in this area. Another area where Thailand and India can work together is in the health and wellness. Thailand has some of the best hospitals in the world. You are very strong in the pharmaceutical industry, why not look at opportunities for closer collaboration? Connectivity is also another area. There is much more that we can do in terms of connectivity, and connectivity will enhance trade. Any update on the India-Myanmar-Thailand trilateral highway? The segment in Thailand is completed. We have financed a certain segment within Myanmar. India's part has been done. India is helping also to finance part of this segment in Myanmar, but the project has been stalled because we know why, because of the situation. So that's why we're hoping that the situation will return to normalcy soon, and so that we can continue to work on the trilateral highway project, so that it can be completed. And another project is the coastal shipping project, connecting the various main ports along the course from Thailand to Myanmar to Bangladesh to India. Moving forward to the defence relationship, what's your view on that? The defence cooperation helps us to ensure that we are prepared in terms of defence, and we also look to India as a source of defence supplies, of defence equipment, weapons, and also these joint exercises, whether it's between our armed forces, our naval forces. I think it serves to enhance our preparedness in terms of defence and security. Another area is maritime security; we share a common interest in ensuring that the sea lanes of communication and transport and commerce, connecting the Pacific Ocean with the Indian Ocean, are kept free and open. Any specific assets you are looking to import from India? Well, we always think in terms of efficiency, effectiveness and cost. Up to now, I think the weapons that we have purchased from India, mainly military vehicles, armoured vehicles, and maybe some munitions. Where do you see the future of the India-Thailand tourism relationship? Well, tourism is a very important sector of the Thai economy. The Thai economy is driven by two important sectors, the trade exports in particular, and also tourism. India has been an important source of tourism for Thailand. We have over 2 million tourists from India coming to enjoy the various sites in Thailand each year, and we are very happy that the number is growing. And I'm always amazed by the size of the Indian weddings held in Thailand. You know, it's not just the bride and bridegroom. You have the whole family, not from one side, but both sides, coming to celebrate Thailand, and so we hope that there'll be more of this kind of tourism in addition to the regular tourism that we have from India. How do you see India's Act East Policy working in terms of India's growing engagement with ASEAN countries, especially Thailand? Well, it was "Look east". Now it's "Act East". And for us, it is "Act West" before we "Look West". So we have to act in terms of concrete actions on what to do. And again, it's not just bilaterally. First of all, we welcome the engagement of India, economically, strategically in the ASEAN region, and India is a very important dialogue partner. There is another framework that brings about the convergence of India's Look East policy and Thailand's Look West policy, which is BIMSTEC. And with regard to BIMSTEC, it has a lot of potential, but we still have a long way to go. So I think that Thailand and India should be working together more under our respective Act East and Thailand's act West policy. How hopeful are you about BIMSTEC? Well, to be very frank, I think we have to really try to quicken the pace, broaden the cooperation, and also make sure that real progress is achieved. I think BIMSTEC has not realised its potential yet. I think South Asia is getting its act together, and Southeast Asia, I think, we remain one of the highest growth areas in the world. And actually, BIMSTEC is not just about the member countries alone. It's about linking South and Southeast Asia. So we really have to do much more. There's been a lot that we've agreed to, such as we have a master plan on connectivity, we have to do more in terms of connectivity, rail, air, land, sea, and also promoting free trade. One element that combines tourism and connectivity is digital connectivity, the connectivity between India's UBI and Thailand's Prompt Pay. Can we see a day when an Indian tourist, or perhaps a Thai tourist, comes to India and uses their QR code to pay? Yes, I say that. I hope it will be done very quickly, because, you know, digital payment is going to really promote economic ties and help tourism, and Thailand is already doing that, with countries like Singapore. Buddhism connect between the two countries. How important is it to both countries? Yes, I think tourism is one of the pillars of our relationship, the fact that we share so much in common in terms of religion and many Thais come to India for religious pilgrimage. We appreciate that you have kindly offered the relics of the Lord Buddha to allow the people in Thailand be able to show their respect. That is very much appreciated. So Buddhism will be at the core of our relationship. It will remain an important pillar of ties. The conflict we saw with Cambodia, if you can perhaps brief to the Indian viewers, about the reason for the conflict, and also what is the current status as well, especially after the mediation, which we saw by the US President Donald Trump Well, it has to do with the border. Borders that have not been clearly demarcated. It has to do with the existence of mines along the border. It has to do with the spread of these illegal crimes, the scam operations. It has to do with encroachment into other territories. And, you know, relations with neighbouring countries, there's a lot of potential, but there always will be problems, and we have to resolve them peacefully, bilaterally. And I guess the issue for us is that sometimes the Cambodians prefer to take many of these bilateral issues internationally, and so we really believe that our two countries should sit down and try to work things out bilaterally. Some of the recent incidents have not helped. They planted a lot of mines along the border. They say that these are old mines, but clearly the evidence proves that they are new mines, and our soldiers have been severely injured by these land mines despite both sides agreeing to do the de-mining. Also Read: India and UK armies deepen ties as Ajeya Warrior-25 ends in Rajasthan But is the ceasefire, which was mediated by the US president, holding or has it been violated? Right now, it's holding. We don't have any clashes, but when you talk about a ceasefire, it includes the issue of landmines, and the landmines, you know, it's been breached by the Cambodians because they've planted new mines, and these new mines have injured Thai soldiers. And when you meet with your counterpart, the Indian External Affairs Minister, tomorrow, all these issues will be discussed. Any particular focus area? We will try to discuss all the issues that we consider to be important, bilaterally, regionally, and internationally. One issue we have to discuss, this issue of the situation in Myanmar, because both of our countries share a common border with Myanmar, and we're concerned about instability in Myanmar. We want to see peace, stability and unity return to the country. Both countries, as neighbouring countries, together with other neighbouring countries, China, Bangladesh and ASEAN, the ASEAN countries, we have to work more closely. We have to align our efforts to ensure that our efforts are going in the same direction towards peace and stability in Myanmar.

Thai FM Sihasak expressed confidence that the $30 billion bilateral trade target by 2030 is achievable, citing India’s rapid growth and opportunities in food security, health, wellness and green technology. He urged India to reconsider joining the RCEP.

India is an ‘important economic powerhouse’, says Thai FM amid deepening defence ties and cross-border cyber-scam crackdown

The death toll from floods and landslides following heavy downpour and landslides caused by tropical cyclone in Southeast Asia has risen past 400 on Saturday (Nov 29) as the rescue operations are underway in Indonesia, Thailand and Malaysia. Heavy monsoons affected large areas of the three countries this week, leaving thousands stranded, and many on rooftops were waiting for rescue to arrive.&nbsp;In the Indonesian island of Sumatra alone, flooding and landslides killed more than 300 people. Of those, 166 were in North Sumatra province, 90 were in West Sumatra, and 47 were in Aceh, head of the National Disaster agency Suharyanto said, adding that at least 279 people remain missing even as tens of thousands of people have been evacuated. Access to several parts of the most affected provinces remains cut off.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cyclone-ditwah-sri-lanka-declares-emergency-as-death-toll-rises-to-132-india-braces-for-impact-sri-lanka-tamil-nadu-floods-rains-1764418163719">Cyclone Ditwah: Sri Lanka declares emergency as death toll rises to 132; India braces for impact</a>&nbsp;Extreme weather in Thailand has impacted more than 3.8 million people and damaged over 1.4 million households. In Songkhla province, floodwaters rose as high as three metres (nearly 10 feet). Authorities said the death toll across eight provinces has reached 162, marking one of the country’s worst flooding disasters in a decade.&nbsp;Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul visited the Shelter home of an evacuee and apologised for the destruction caused by the floods. "I will use all my expertise and dedication to improve the situation," he said, announcing a two-week timeframe for the district's cleanup.&nbsp;Workers at one of the hospitals in severely hit Hat Yai moved the dead bodies into refrigerated trucks after the mortuaries exceeded capacity.&nbsp;The Thai government has announced a series of relief measures for flood-affected residents, including compensation of up to two million baht ($62,000) for families who have lost loved ones.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-smoking-trigger-hong-kong-s-deadliest-fire-incident-that-killed-128-here-s-what-we-know-1764401981985">Did 'smoking' trigger Hong Kong’s deadliest fire incident that killed 128? Here's what we know</a>&nbsp;Two people were killed in Malaysia by flooding caused by heavy rain. The country's foreign affairs ministry said more than 6,000 Malaysians who were stranded by severe flooding in Thailand's Hat Yai had been rescued. &nbsp;

Flooding and landslides have claimed over 300 lives on Indonesia’s Sumatra island, with another 162 deaths reported in Thailand.

The death toll from floods and landslides following heavy downpour and landslides caused by tropical cyclone in Southeast Asia has risen past 400 on Saturday (Nov 29) as the rescue operations are underway in Indonesia, Thailand and Malaysia. Heavy monsoons affected large areas of the three countries this week, leaving thousands stranded, and many on rooftops were waiting for rescue to arrive. In the Indonesian island of Sumatra alone, flooding and landslides killed more than 300 people. Of those, 166 were in North Sumatra province, 90 were in West Sumatra, and 47 were in Aceh, head of the National Disaster agency Suharyanto said, adding that at least 279 people remain missing even as tens of thousands of people have been evacuated. Access to several parts of the most affected provinces remains cut off. Also Read: Cyclone Ditwah: Sri Lanka declares emergency as death toll rises to 132; India braces for impact Extreme weather in Thailand has impacted more than 3.8 million people and damaged over 1.4 million households. In Songkhla province, floodwaters rose as high as three metres (nearly 10 feet). Authorities said the death toll across eight provinces has reached 162, marking one of the country’s worst flooding disasters in a decade. Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul visited the Shelter home of an evacuee and apologised for the destruction caused by the floods. "I will use all my expertise and dedication to improve the situation," he said, announcing a two-week timeframe for the district's cleanup. Workers at one of the hospitals in severely hit Hat Yai moved the dead bodies into refrigerated trucks after the mortuaries exceeded capacity. The Thai government has announced a series of relief measures for flood-affected residents, including compensation of up to two million baht ($62,000) for families who have lost loved ones. Also Read: Did 'smoking' trigger Hong Kong’s deadliest fire incident that killed 128? Here's what we know Two people were killed in Malaysia by flooding caused by heavy rain. The country's foreign affairs ministry said more than 6,000 Malaysians who were stranded by severe flooding in Thailand's Hat Yai had been rescued.

Flooding and landslides have claimed over 300 lives on Indonesia’s Sumatra island, with another 162 deaths reported in Thailand.

At least 460 killed in Southeast Asia floods as Indonesia’s death toll rises to 303

Severe flooding and landslides have devastated Sri Lanka’s mountain regions, claiming over 40 lives. Torrential rains have caused widespread damage, disrupted transport, and stranded residents. Rescue operations are ongoing as authorities work to reach affected areas. Stay updated on the latest developments and relief efforts.

Southeast Asia Floods: Indonesia, Malaysia & Thailand Hit By Heavy Rains, Flooding

Thailand airlifted patients and flew critical supplies, including oxygen tanks, into a submerged southern city on Wednesday, as the death toll from some of the region’s worst floods in years climbed to 55.
Floods have swept through nine Thai provinces and eight states in neighbouring Malaysia for a second successive year, prompting both countries to evacuate nearly 50,000 people.

Thailand floods: Thailand morgue overflows as flood toll rises

Police in Thailand say they believe a woman who allegedly trafficked her 12-year-old daughter in Tokyo will be sent to Japan from Taiwan in one or two months for an investigation.


Thai Woman Trafficks 12-year-old Daughter in Tokyo; Japan's Criminal Nexus Back Under Spotlight 

Thailand airlifted patients and flew critical supplies, including oxygen tanks, into a submerged southern city on Wednesday, as the death toll from some of the region’s worst floods in years climbed to 33.
Floods have swept through nine Thai provinces and eight states in neighbouring Malaysia for a second successive year, prompting both countries to evacuate nearly 50,000 people.

Thailand Floods: At Least 33 Dead, Record Rains Swamp Southern Thailand

Thailand floods turn deadly: 33 killed as torrential waters sweep across country 

A shocking story from Thailand: a woman was declared dead and placed in a coffin, only to wake up moments before her cremation. Witnesses and authorities were stunned as the miraculous survival unfolded.

Thailand: Thai Woman Declared Dead Wakes Up Moments Before Cremation in Shocking Miracle 

In a shocking incident from Thailand, a woman declared dead was found alive inside her coffin moments before her cremation. Relatives and funeral staff were stunned when she suddenly regained consciousness. The case has sparked national debate about medical oversight, misdiagnosis, and miracle survival stories, as officials investigate how the premature declaration of death occurred.

Woman Found Alive In Coffin, Wakes Up Moments Before Cremation

Severe flooding in Thailand has impacted nearly 2 million people, prompting large-scale rescue and relief operations across multiple provinces. The Thai military, emergency responders, and local authorities have been deployed to evacuate residents, deliver supplies, and restore essential services.


Thailand Floods: Nearly 2 Million Affected by Severe Flooding; Military and Rescue Teams Deployed 

King Maha Vajiralongkorn and his Queen have arrived in Beijing for a landmark state visit, marking the first visit by a reigning Thai monarch to China in 50 years of diplomatic relations. Hosted by Chinese President Xi Jinping, the visit highlights the strengthening of bilateral ties, including cooperation in infrastructure, digital economy, and cultural exchanges. 

Thailand's King And Queen Make Historic State Visit to Mainland China

The Miss Universe pageant held in Thailand has come under scrutiny amid allegations of rigging and irregularities, igniting widespread debate and controversy. Sources claim that the outcome faced manipulation, casting doubts over the fairness and transparency of the event. Participants and fans have expressed disappointment, and organizers are facing calls for an independent investigation. 


Miss Universe Controversy: Pageant Faces Crisis Over Rigging Claims 

U.S. President Donald Trump said on Friday he thought Thailand and Cambodia were "going to be fine" after he sought to mediate a flare-up in their border dispute, but the Thai leader continued to demand an apology from Phnom Penh.
Thailand this week suspended a U.S.-brokered ceasefire deal and demanded an apology over allegations that Cambodia had laid fresh landmines that injured Thai soldiers, which Cambodia denies.

Thailand-Cambodia Tensions: Thailand Refuses To Adhere To Peace Plan With Cambodia

Thailand-Cambodia tensions: Thailand refuses to adhere to peace plan with Cambodia

A restaurant in central Thailand was bursting with a stream of customers coming for a unique dining experience: Enjoying a meal while sitting in flood waters, surrounded by live fish they bring into the establishment.


Thailand: Floods have turned the fortune of this Thai restaurant | Pa-Jit eatery 

Thailand-Cambodia tensions: Cambodia claims at least 5 civilians killed by Thai soldiers

King Maha Vajiralongkorn of Thailand has arrived in Beijing for a landmark state visit, marking the first visit by a reigning Thai monarch to China in 50 years of diplomatic relations. Hosted by Chinese President Xi Jinping, the visit highlights the strengthening of bilateral ties, including cooperation in infrastructure, digital economy, and cultural exchanges. 

Thailand's King Maha Vajiralongkorn Begins Historic State Visit to China 

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India is an ‘important economic powerhouse’, says Thai FM amid deepening defence ties and cross-border cyber-scam crackdown

Death toll from Indonesia floods and landslides rises to 303

Southeast Asia Floods: Indonesia, Malaysia & Thailand Hit By Heavy Rains, Flooding

Thailand floods: Thailand morgue overflows as flood toll rises

Thai Woman Trafficks 12-year-old Daughter in Tokyo; Japan's Criminal Nexus Back Under Spotlight

Thailand Floods: At Least 33 Dead, Record Rains Swamp Southern Thailand

Thailand floods turn deadly: 33 killed as torrential waters sweep across country

Thailand: Thai Woman Declared Dead Wakes Up Moments Before Cremation in Shocking Miracle

Woman Found Alive In Coffin, Wakes Up Moments Before Cremation

Woman Found Alive In Coffin, Wakes Up Moments Before Cremation

Thailand Floods: Nearly 2 Million Affected by Severe Flooding; Military and Rescue Teams Deployed

Thailand's King And Queen Make Historic State Visit to Mainland China

Miss Universe Controversy: Pageant Faces Crisis Over Rigging Claims