Police officers examine evidence inside the room of the 77-year-old American man who was found dead on July 26, 2024.
CHANTHABURI — A 77-year-old American tourist was found dead in his apartment room in Chanthaburi city. Police sent the body for an autopsy to determine the cause of death, suspecting it may be due to chronic health conditions.
On July 26, the Sawang Katanyutham Foundation’s rescue radio center in Chanthaburi notified the Mueang Chanthaburi Police Station about a foreign tourist found dead in his room for unknown reasons at an apartment complex in the city district. Police were dispatched to investigate along with immigration officers and a forensic doctor from Prapokklao Hospital.
The room was on the 5th floor of the apartment building. The deceased’s body was found next to the bed in the bedroom, unclothed. There were no signs of physical assault or accident on the body. The forensic doctor estimated that death had occurred about 2 days prior.
Inside the room, packages of medication for chronic conditions were found on the bed. Personal belongings were in normal condition.
According to Police Lieutenant Thanachot Promtha, the investigator on duty, the deceased was identified as Mr. Steven, a 77-year-old American citizen holding a tourist visa. He was described as a retired government official.
The deceased American’s room was on the 5th floor of the apartment building.
Ms. Iam, who looked after Mr. Steven and lived in the room across from him, provided information that he had been traveling in Thailand and living in that room for several years. Recently, he had been suffering from various health issues, including an enlarged prostate and lymph node problems. She had tried to take him for treatment and contacted his relatives to inform them.
Ms. Iam also mentioned that the deceased often refused to cooperate in seeking medical treatment. The last time she saw him was on July 16, when he appeared weak. She tried to persuade him to go to the hospital for treatment, but he refused. They didn’t see each other after that as she had to take care of her grandchild.
It wasn’t until this morning when she came to check on the room that she found Mr. Steven had passed away. She then notified the authorities.
Rescue workers have taken the body for a detailed autopsy to determine the cause of death. They will also contact the relatives for further proceedings.
Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra celebrates his 75th birthday on July 26, 2024 at Chan Song La house, surrounded by family members and close associates.
BANGKOK — Not only did former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra express happiness during his birthday celebrations over these three days, but the parties and the interview he gave to the media also sent political messages.
On July 26, Thaksin celebrated his 75th birthday at his Chan Song La residence in Bangkok, following the previous two parties in the past three days. It was the first time in 17 years that he had celebrated his birthday in Thailand since he returned to his homeland on August 22, 2023.
He said that there is no place like home, where he has family, friends, familiar food, culture, and surroundings; therefore, he has been truly happy.
“Today I made merit by inviting respected monks to chant blessings and give alms. I enjoyed a simple meal with close friends, including politicians, businessmen and family members. It was a very happy atmosphere. (Close associates) did not need to book air tickets, such as Ms. Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the Pheu Thai Party leader, who usually has to fly to see me,” Thaksin said.
Thaksin Shinawatra gives an interview to the media at Chan Song La house, where his 75th birthday celebration was held on July 26.
Political and business allies close to him and his family attended the events. Attendees included Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce Phumtham Wechayachai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Suriya Jungrungreangkit, Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, Minister of Digital Economy and Society Prasert Chantrarawong, Minister of Social Development and Human Security Varawut Silpa-archa, Chairman of the Chart Pattana Party Suwat Liptapanlop, Chairman of the Board of Gulf Energy Development Sarath Ratanavadi, and Chairman of BTS Group Holdings Keeree Kanjanapas.
However, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin was not present at any of the parties.
Backup Plan for Court’s Ruling on Srettha
Prime Minister Srettha said at Don Mueang Air Force Base that he was preoccupied with work, so he was unable to wish Thaksin Shinawatra a happy birthday in person today. He added that he had called Thaksin this morning, but Thaksin was unable to answer the phone as he was in the middle of a merit-making ceremony.
Srettha had previously visited Thaksin at Chan Song La house last year, but he has not shown any indication of appointing Thaksin to a political advisory position. He himself is awaiting the Constitutional Court’s ruling on a case filed by former senators to determine whether the appointment of Mr. Pichit Chuenbaan as a minister would result in Srettha’s removal from office.
Thaksin said that the Prime Minister acted with sincerity and straightforwardness, with no complications. He believed that Srettha could explain everything and that there shouldn’t be any concerns.
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin attends a police committee meeting at the Royal Thai Police Headquarters and reveals that he hasn’t had the opportunity to personally wish Thaksin Shinawatra a happy birthday today, July 26, 2024.
When asked if it was necessary to have a backup plan, Thaksin said, “I can’t be Prime Minister anymore. I’m old and my working time is over. Besides qualifications, my working time is over. My duty is to give advice and encouragement.”
When reporters asked about the trip he and his daughter, Paetongtarn, leader of the Pheu Thai Party, took to relax at Anutin’s resort in Khao Yai, and whether it was a ‘Khao Yai Pact’ preparing for political changes, Thaksin said it was not.
He stated that the issue of pacts had already caused him trouble once before. In reality, there was nothing to it. Although he is a veteran politician, his duty now is to create reconciliation to strengthen politics and allow the country to move forward, rather than to perform other roles.
Restoring Economic Confidence
When reporters mentioned the current popularity of the song ‘Missing Uncle Tu,’ which refers to former Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-o-cha, as some people were comparing the current economic situation to that of the previous government, Thaksin said, ‘General Prayuth Chan-o-cha is now a Privy Councillor. He won’t return to politics. Let’s not do anything to tarnish his reputation.
Thaksin said that he is also concerned about the economy. Today, ordinary people are struggling. He suggested that everyone should work together to quickly revitalize the country and restore confidence.
“In a capitalist economic system, confidence, credibility, and trust are crucial. If confidence can be restored, money will flow in naturally. Without confidence and credibility, money will disappear completely. Today, many people are in debt. We need to cast a spell to bring money back in,” he said.
He emphasized that Pheu Thai is the only party that can fix this situation, saying, ‘In truth, if our party can’t fix it, no one can, because our party has extensive experience.’
A Matter of a Father Advising His Daughter
When reporters asked if there was a chance he would accept a political position, Thaksin said, ‘There’s nothing. My salary (senior citizen welfare payment) is now 700 baht, so what position could I possibly take?’ When asked if he would take on a role in the Pheu Thai Party to help Ms. Paetongtarn, Thaksin said it was a matter of a father advising his daughter.
Thaksin also stated that this year is a meaningful and joyful year because in two days Thai people are celebrating the 72nd birthday of His Majesty the King of Thailand and he will celebrate with his fellow Thais, which make him very happy.
Thaksin Shinawatra and his family pose for a family photos at Chan Song La house, where his 75th birthday celebration was held on July 26, 2024.Former premier Yingluck Shinwatra on Friday posts a message on social media wishing her older brother, Thaksin Shinwatra a happy 75th birthday.
When asked if he had any birthday wishes for himself, Thaksin said that health was the most important thing. Everyone who is older than 55 should start taking care of their health because it is crucial for life. If you have energy, you can make an important contribution to the country. If you maintain good physical health and a sharp mind, you can help the nation.
When asked what gifts his children had given him, Thaksin replied, “My children did not like the foyer, so they put money together to buy me a piano to keep me company, even though I can’t play it. I will have it played by a ghost.”
Ms. Paetongtarn, in an interview about her father’s birthday wishes, said that she had wished every year for him to return to Thailand. Now that the wish has come true, everyone who came today has always visited their father. Today, he should be happy to be here among those who love him. Everything comes down to the heart, which is the most important thing.
As for the family member who is very close to Thaksin but couldn’t attend this event due to still being in exile abroad, former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra posted a photo of herself with Thaksin and wished him: ‘Happy 75th birthday, my dearest brother. This year is a “perfect year” for you. May you be in good health and happy always.’
PHUKET — GO Wholesale, a food wholesale center under Central Retail Corporation (CRC), has proudly launched its inaugural branch in the southern region of Thailand, located in Rawai, Phuket.
This new establishment aims to create a comprehensive “Food Paradise,” offering extensive member benefits while playing a pivotal role in stimulating the local economy.
The opening ceremony was graced by the esteemed presence of VDC Col. Adul Chutong, Deputy Governor of Phuket Province.
Mrs. Suchada Ithijarukul, CEO Group Thailand & International, Central Food Wholesales Limited, stated that the Go Wholesale, Rawai branch in Phuket is the first to open in the southern region and marks the 8th branch in Thailand.
Spanning over 5,000 square meters, the branch houses more than 10,000 products and embodies the concept of a food paradise,” with a significant emphasis on fresh and frozen food, solidifying its reputation as the House of Fresh.
This newly opened branch is set to support the economic expansion of the province, which is a major world-class tourist destination and has been promoted as part of Thailand’s soft power in the food sector.
“Phuket has immense growth potential, particularly in the tourism sector, leading to the proliferation of restaurants, hotels, HoReCa businesses, street food vendors, and small retail stores. GO Wholesale, as a food wholesale center under Central Retail Corporation (CRC), aims to inspire entrepreneurs in Rawai and nearby provinces to explore innovative business opportunities. Our membership system offers extensive benefits to all customer groups, provided by GO Wholesale and its affiliates,” she said.
Furthermore, GO Wholesale places great importance on supporting agricultural products and creating stable employment opportunities, with over 80% of the employees at the Rawai branch being local to Phuket and neighboring provinces. The company supports Thai farmers by purchasing local agricultural products such as Phuket lobsters, blue swimming crabs, tiger prawns, Phuket pineapples, and hydroponic vegetables, fostering sustainable jobs and income for the community.
Additionally, GO Wholesale consistently organizes environmental care campaigns and recently donated 40 waste separation bins, each with a capacity of 120 liters, to the Rawai Municipality for placement in key tourist and community areas.
To commemorate the opening of the Rawai branch, GO Wholesale offers new members a free discount coupon worth 1,000 baht, a large shopping bag for purchases of 3,000 baht, an apron with a unique design for purchases of 4,500 baht, and various other promotions, discounts, exchanges, giveaways, and more.
In 2024, Phuket is expected to generate substantial income from tourism, positively impacting the local business sector. This growth will benefit restaurants, small retail stores, HoReCa businesses, service providers, and street food vendors, all of which are preparing to capitalize on the increasing tourism and the government’s ongoing economic stimulus measures.
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A large Chinese advertisement is posted on a four-storey commercial building in the heart of Nakhon Ratchasima city.
NAKHON RATCHASIMA — The Chinese supermarket with a large Chinese advertisement in the heart of Nakhon Ratchasima city, which attracted widespread attention and criticism on social media, is closing while being inspected.
This advertisement, posted on a four-storey commercial building along Ratchadamnoen Road about 500 meters from the province’s landmark Thao Suranaree Monument, used Chinese text to advertise Chinese food, snacks, spices, dried foods, frozen foods, and other goods, along with a contact number and the single Thai word “Chinese supermarket.”
Several government agencies, including the tourism police, the provincial health department and the Nakhon Ratchasima provincial trade office, inspected the supermarket on July 24 and 25.
Inside the Chinese supermarket in Nakhon Ratchasima
On July 26, Mr. Jirasak Sriphet, the Nakhon Ratchasima Provincial Trade Commissioner, stated that his office had requested an inspection regarding the business license as a legal entity. It was found that the supermarket has a valid business license registered under the name “Wang Zhong Wang Chinese Supermarket Co., Ltd.” with three shareholders who are all Thai nationals and not foreigners.
All of the store’s employees are also Thai, and the goods in the store are sourced from stores in the Yaowarat district of Bangkok, not directly from China.
The Chinese Supermarket in the heart of Korat closed on July 26, after it had been inspected since July 24, 2024.
Authorities affiliated with the Ministry of Commerce have been reviewing price tags, as required by law, to ensure that consumers are aware of the prices they can decide on. The Nakhon Ratchasima Municipality controls signboard taxes, while other taxes are reviewed by the Ministry of Finance. When it comes to product labels and compliance with FDA standards, the provincial health department will review them later.
The inspection was conducted within the scope of their legal authority and should not cause any trouble. If any violations are found, the appropriate legal action will be taken. It may be that the supermarket has been temporarily closed because the owner or manager was concerned by the inspections. The public and the store should not be alarmed or concerned.
Passengers queue at the Eurostar terminal at St. Pancras station in central London, Friday July 26, 2024. (James Manning/PA via AP)
PARIS (AP) — France’s high-speed rail network was hit Friday with widespread and “criminal” acts of vandalism including arson attacks, paralyzing travel to Paris from across the rest of France and Europe only hours before the grand opening ceremony of the Olympics.
French officials described the attacks as “criminal actions” and said they were investigating whether they were linked to the Olympic Games. The disruptions as the world’s eye was turning to Paris were expected to affect a quarter of a million people on Friday and endure through the weekend, and possibly longer, officials said.
French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal wrote on the social media platform X that France’s intelligence services have been mobilized to find the perpetrators.
Attal characterized them as “acts of sabotage,” which were “prepared and coordinated.”
There were no known reports of injuries.
The National Jurisdiction for the Fight against Organized Crime is handling it.
The prosecutor’s office said it had “jurisdiction over crimes involving the deterioration of property that threaten the fundamental interests of the nation.”
This crime, it added, carried a potential 15-year sentence and fines of 225,000 euros.
Further, it said crimes involving “degradation and attempted degradation by dangerous means in an organized group” can carry a 20-year prison sentence and fines of 150,000 euros.
Travelers check trains on an electronic board at the Gare de Montparnasse, at the 2024 Summer Olympics, Friday, July 26, 2024, in Paris, France. Hours away from the grand opening ceremony of the Olympics, high-speed rail traffic to the French capital was severely disrupted on Friday following what officials described as “criminal actions” and sabotage. (AP Photo/Yasin Dar)
Transport Minister Patrice Vergriete described people fleeing from the scene of fires and the discovery of incendiary devices. “Everything indicates that these are criminal fires,” he said.
The incidents paralyzed several high-speed lines linking Paris to the rest of France and to neighboring countries, Vergriete said, speaking on BFM television, Vergriete.
The French national rail company SNCF said that areas affecting rail track intersections were intentionally targeted by the arsonists in the overnight attacks to double the impact.
“For one fire, two destinations were hit,” the company’s CEO, Jean-Pierre Farandou.
It was “a premeditated, calculated, coordinated attack” that indicates “a desire to seriously harm” the French people, Farandou said.
The attack occurred against a backdrop of global tensions and heightened security measures as the city prepared for the 2024 Olympic Games. Many travelers were planning to converge on the capital for the opening ceremony, and many vacationers were also in transit.
As Paris authorities geared up for a spectacular parade on and along the Seine River, three fires were reported near the tracks on the high-speed lines of Atlantique, Nord and Est. The disruptions particularly affected Paris’ major Montparnasse station, where the station’s hall was full of travelers.
The Paris police prefecture “concentrated its personnel in Parisian train stations” after the “massive attack” that paralyzed the TGV high-speed network, Laurent Nuñez, the Paris police chief, told France Info television.
Many passengers at the Gare du Nord, one of Europe’s busiest train stations, were looking for answers and solutions on Friday morning. All eyes were on the central message boards as most services to northern France, Belgium and the United Kingdom were delayed.
“It’s a hell of a way to start the Olympics,” said Sarah Moseley, 42, as she learned that her train to London was an hour late.
“They should have more information for tourists, especially if it’s a malicious attack,” said Corey Grainger, a 37-year-old Australian sales manager on his way to London, as he rested on his two suitcases in the middle of the station.
Government officials denounced the acts, though they said there was no immediate sign of a direct link to the Olympics. National police said authorities were investigating the incidents. French media reported a major fire on a busy western route.
Sports Minister Amélie Oudéa-Castera said authorities were working to “evaluate the impact on travelers, athletes, and ensure the transport of all delegations to the competition sites” for the Olympics. Speaking on BFM television, she added, “Playing against the Games is playing against France, against your own camp, against your country.” She did not identify who was behind the vandalism.
Police officers patrol inside the Gare du Nord train station at the 2024 Summer Olympics, Friday, July 26, 2024, in Paris, France. Hours away from the grand opening ceremony of the Olympics, high-speed rail traffic to the French capital was severely disrupted on Friday by what officials described as “criminal actions” and sabotage. (AP Photo/Mark Baker)
Passengers at St. Pancras station in London were warned to expect delays of around an hour to their Eurostar journeys. Announcements in the departure hall at the international terminus informed travelers heading to Paris that there was a problem with overhead power supplies.
SNCF said it did not know when traffic would resume and feared that disruptions would continue “at least all weekend.” SNCF teams “were already on site to carry out diagnostics and begin repairs,” but the “situation should last at least all weekend while the repairs are carried out,” the operator said. SNCF advised “all passengers to postpone their journey and not to go to the station,” specifying in its press release that all tickets were exchangeable and refundable.
Valerie Pecresse, president of the regional council of the greater Paris region, speaking from Montparnasse station, said “250,000 travelers will be affected today on all these lines.” Substitution plans were underway, but Pecresse advised travelers “not to go to stations.”
The troubles comes ahead of an opening ceremony has been planned for later Friday in which 7,000 Olympic athletes are due to sail down the Seine past iconic Parisian monuments such as Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Louvre Museum, and the Musee d’Orsay.
AIS has signed a memorandum of understanding with Singtel and Maxis, leading telecommunications companies in ASEAN, marking the first international telecommunications collaboration on APIs. This initiative aims to enhance real-time data sharing, strengthen identity verification, and prevent fraud. By expanding the AIS Open API services, this collaboration ensures increased security for applications in user verification and fraud prevention, extending its reach across the region.
AIS Open API is a suite of certified connectivity services (Application Programming Interfaces – APIs) by GSMA. It is available for application developers from various businesses to access telecommunications network capabilities, fostering innovation and enhancing user security. Current services include digital user authentication registered with telecom companies and checking if transactions are being conducted from devices with recently changed SIM cards. This is aimed at fraud detection and prevention, addressing the high incidence of online transaction fraud in ASEAN, primarily driven by automated bots targeting e-commerce payments.
AIS Open API is applicable across industries such as banking, financial services, e-commerce, and online gaming, enabling enhanced multi-factor authentication for safer transactions through Number Verification API. Additionally, the SIM Swap API helps prevent fraud by verifying conditions when SIM cards are changed, mitigating the risk of account takeovers. Telecom providers can further enhance security measures to protect against cyber threats, minimizing the impact on digital usage for the public.
Mr. Phupa Akavipat, Acting Chief Enterprise Business Officer, AIS, stated, “This collaboration is a significant step in our mission to protect the safety of our customers and digital service users. By leveraging our telecommunications expertise and resources with Singtel and Maxis, we are creating the powerful ‘AIS Open API’ platform. This will enhance credibility and security for businesses and consumers in Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore. The unified effort in phone number verification via API strengthens businesses and digital platform providers in verifying digital identities both domestically and regionally through real-time phone number checks, leveraging the strengths of these telecom companies together. The AIS Open API offers comprehensive and secure solutions to prevent various types of fraud, including account takeovers and phishing attacks. Phone number verification through AIS Open API significantly reduces the risk of fraud, enhancing customer trust.”
Mr. Ng Tian Chong, Chief Executive Officer, Singtel Singapore, said, “The growth of e-commerce in this region may lead to increased opportunities for digital fraud, significantly impacting consumers and businesses. We are delighted to collaborate with AIS and Maxis to address this issue and protect customers. This collaboration will enable the use of telecom data to seamlessly verify identities, protect, and reduce financial losses, ensuring a secure digital experience for customers in Singapore, Thailand, and Malaysia. We will continue to lead the fight against digital fraud and invite other mobile network operators to join us in creating a stronger ecosystem for everyone.”
Mr. Goh Seow Eng, Chief Executive Officer of Maxis said, “As Malaysia’s leading integrated telco, we provide fast, reliable, and secure connectivity that meets the needs of customers. This collaboration protects customers against online threat actors so they can progress on their digital transformation journey with peace of mind.”
Julian Gorman, Head of Asia Pacific at the GSMA, said: “I’m delighted three of Asia’s most innovative mobile operators have come together, through the GSMA Open Gateway initiative, to tackle online fraud and help increase consumer trust in new digital services across Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand. Fraudulent attacks can have a profound impact on victims, including financial losses and distress, resulting in a degradation of trust in digital platforms. Cybercriminals operate beyond national borders, so it’s vital that mobile operators and developers of digital services unify behind a common approach to fraud prevention wherever they are in the world.”
The signing ceremony took place at the Digital Nation Summit in Singapore on 25 July 2024, between AIS, Singtel Singapore, and Maxis Malaysia. This collaboration allows developers to provide services to over 61.6 million users across Thailand (45 million AIS users), Malaysia (12 million Maxis users), and Singapore (4.6 million Singtel users), furthering the development of secure applications to combat regional cyber threats and fraud.
For businesses interested in new-age identity verification services through AIS Open API, please contact the AIS Business team immediately or visit [AIS Open API] (https://ais.th/business/enterprise/technology-and-solution/communication/ais-open-api) for more details.
From left, Philippine Foreign Secretary Enrique Manalo, looks on as Vietnam Deputy Foreign Minister Do Hung Viet, Singapore Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan, Thailand Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Malaysia Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan walk together after a group photo before the ASEAN Post Ministerial Conference with China at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Vientiane, Laos, Friday, July, 26, 2024. (AP Photo/Achmad Ibrahim)
VIENTIANE, Laos (AP) — Top diplomats from Southeast Asia met Friday morning in Vientiane with China’s Foreign Minister for talks that come as friction continues to escalate over Beijing’s growing effort to press its sweeping maritime claims in the South China Sea.
Several members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nation have disputes with China, which has led to direct confrontations that many worry could lead to broader conflict.
“One wrong step in the South China Sea will turn a small fire into a terrible firestorm,” said Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi ahead of the talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.
ASEAN members Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia and Brunei all have conflicts with China over its claims of sovereignty over virtually all of the South China Sea, one of the world’s most crucial waterways for shipping. Indonesia has also expressed concern about what it sees as Beijing’s encroachment on its exclusive economic zone.
The United States and its allies, meanwhile, have been regularly conducting military exercises and patrols in the area to assert their “free and open Indo-Pacific” policy, including the right to navigate international waters — drawing criticism from China.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken was to arrive Saturday to attend the ASEAN meetings and was expected to meet with Wang on the sidelines for bilateral talks.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov is also attending the meetings, and already held direct talks with Wang.
China is a key ally of Russia’s in its war against Ukraine, and Wang emphasized the “deepening strategic coordination” between the two nations, China’s Xinhua news agency reported.
This year, tensions between the Philippines — an American treaty ally —- and China have escalated. In June, a Chinese vessel and a Philippine supply ship collided near the disputed Spratly Islands in the South China Sea, sparking alarm.
The ASEAN countries — Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Myanmar, Cambodia, Brunei and Laos — emphasized in their opening meetings Thursday that it’s important they don’t get drawn in as both China and the U.S. look to expand their influence.
Following the talks, Marsudi said the group stressed that the ten-member regional bloc should not be a proxy for any power, otherwise “it will be difficult for ASEAN to become an anchor for regional stability and peace.”
There were no immediate details available about Friday morning’s talks between Wang and the ASEAN foreign ministers.
After Thursday night’s talks, however, Thai foreign minister Maris Sangiampongsa said the group had discussed the importance of producing the South China Sea code of conduct that it has been working on for some time with China, and planned further talks with China on the matter.
He said that the Philippines informed in the meeting that they have been trying to engage with China, which is considered a good sign.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, 6th from left, poses for group photos with ASEAN ministers and delegates during the ASEAN Post Ministerial Conference with China at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Vientiane, Laos, Friday, July, 26, 2024. (AP Photo/Achmad Ibrahim)
China and the Philippines said Sunday they had reached a deal that they hope will end the confrontations, aiming to establish a mutually acceptable arrangement for the disputed area without conceding either side’s territorial claims.
There are divisions within ASEAN on how to deal with China’s maritime claims and the Philippines has been critical over a perceived lack of support from the bloc.
In Thursday’s talks, the Philippines pushed for the inclusion of June’s collision in the joint communique to be issued at the end of the meetings. Cambodia and Laos, which are close to China, opposed the wording, according to a senior Southeast Asian diplomat who was involved in closed-door negotiations and spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the matter freely.
Manila’s proposal stating that a recent incident in the South China Sea caused “damage to properties” and “caused injuries” without mentioning specific details like the name of the shoal and the contending state forces, the diplomat said.
The increasingly violent civil war in ASEAN member state Myanmar is also one of the main issues being taken up, the group supported Thailand taking a broader role, Thailand’s Maris said.
Thailand, which shares a long border with Myanmar, has already been involved in providing humanitarian assistance.
The country initiated its first delivery of aid to Myanmar in March from the northern province of Tak. It was said to be distributed in Kayin state to approximately 20,000 out of millions of people displaced by fighting.
Maris announced that another $250,000 will be donated to the ASEAN Coordinating Center for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management that is overseeing a plan to deliver aid into Myanmar.
Thailand’s Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa speaks during the ASEAN Post Ministerial Conference with Japan at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Vientiane, Laos, Friday, July 26, 2024. (AP Photo/Achmad Ibrahim)
The army in Myanmar ousted the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi in February 2021 and suppressed widespread nonviolent protests that sought a return to democratic rule, leading to increasing violence and a humanitarian crisis.
The ASEAN group has been pushing its so-called “five-point consensus” for peace, but the military leadership in Myanmar has so far ignored the plan, raising questions about the bloc’s efficiency and credibility.
It calls for the immediate cessation of violence in Myanmar, a dialogue among all concerned parties, mediation by an ASEAN special envoy, provision of humanitarian aid through ASEAN channels, and a visit to Myanmar by the special envoy to meet all concerned parties.
Myanmar has been blocked from sending political representatives to the ASEAN meetings and is instead represented by Aung Kyaw Moe, the permanent secretary of Myanmar’s Foreign Ministry.
China, which also shares a long border with Myanmar, also plays an important role in that it that it supports the military regime while also maintaining close contacts with several of the powerful ethnic armed groups that are currently fighting against it.
In his opening statement ahead of talks between ASEAN and China, Aung Kyaw Moe had effusive praise for Beijing, pledging that the bloc would continue to work to deepen cooperation with China in all areas.
BANGKOK — The National Symphony Youth Orchestra (NSYO) from Taiwan will perform in Thailand as their first international tour in cooperation with the award-winning Taiwanese violinist Richard Lin to showcase both the enormous potential of young musicians and remarkable performances of music masters. The concerts will take place on August 4, at the MACM Hall, Mahidol University College of Music.
Solo violinist Richard Lin, whose accolades include winning first prize at the 2018 International Violin Competition of Indianapolis is a renowned musician.
He has performed in Asia, Europe and North America collaborating with many prominent venues. His debut in Carnegie Hall in 2022 was commented as “captivating” by New York Concert Review.
The program of NSYO in Thailand includes Concertino Cusqueño by Gabriela Lena Frank, Violin Concerto, Op. 14 by Samuel Barber, Three-Cornered Hat Suite No. 2 by Manuel de Falla, and Capriccio Espagnol, Op. 34 by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov.
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Program:
Gabriela Lena Frank: Concertino Cusqueño
Samuel Barber: Violin Concerto, Op.14
Manuel de Falla: Three-Cornered Hat Suite No.2
Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov: Capriccio Espagnol, Op.34
Since beginning his term as Music Director of the National Symphony Orchestra (NSO) in January 2022, Jun Märkl has drawn experience from international youth music initiatives and incorporated the merits of young musicians training systems from various countries and orchestras to establish a National Symphony Youth Orchestra (NSYO) tailored to the characteristics of Taiwan.
During winter and summer vacations each year, the NSYO recruits exceptional young musicians from Taiwan and abroad to participate in intensive training courses and rehearsals. The orchestra also invites internationally renowned musicians to join the NSYO on tour and in concert. The NSYO is formed for the first time in July 2023, with Music Director Jun Märkl as conductor. Märkl will guide more than one hundred young musicians through rehearsals at the Miaobei Art Center before they showcase their accomplishments in performances at the Miaobei Art Center, Nantou Cultural Center, Taitung Art and Culture Center, National Kaohsiung Center for the Arts (Weiwuying), and National Concert Hall in Taipei.
NSYO shall serve as a cultural ambassador for Taiwan, focusing on Taiwan but also looking to the world. It is our aim to solidify Taiwan’s place in the global network of classical music, and to open up future possibilities for young musicians in Taiwan to explore the international music scene.
Three gemstones which a Bangkok gem merchant reported to the police as having been stolen by a 10-year acquaintance.
BANGKOK — Police have obtained an arrest warrant for a suspect who allegedly embezzled $400,000 worth of gems from a longtime friend and are now seeking Interpol’s assistance for his arrest.
On July 25, police investigators revealed that the court had approved an arrest warrant for a male suspect in a case where an Indian gem merchant was robbed of three precious stones worth 14.5 million baht by a trusted friend of ten years, who subsequently fled Thailand.
Pol. Lt. Phurivat Jira-akkarathat, Deputy Inspector (Investigation) of Yannawa Police Station, disclosed that Mr. Rajesh filed a complaint on July 17, reporting that an acquaintance of ten years had stolen three gems from him—two blue stones and one yellow stone—worth 14.5 million baht (approximately $400,000) before fleeing the country.
Officers interviewed witnesses and examined CCTV footage before submitting a request for an arrest warrant. The court approved the warrant on July 23 for Mr. A (alias), a 40-year-old dual Canadian-Pakistani national, on charges of embezzlement. Police are currently gathering related documents for translation before submitting a request for an Interpol Red Notice.
According to Mr. Rajesh, Mr. A claimed he had a customer interested in purchasing gems and needed to take the stones to show the potential buyer. The victim had previously entrusted gems to Mr. A for customer viewings, trusting him due to their decade-long relationship. In previous instances when customers showed no interest, Mr. A had always returned the gems.
However, after handing over the gems at a luxury hotel on Charoen Krung Road on July 17, Mr. Rajesh was unable to contact Mr. A again.
CCTV footage revealed that immediately after receiving the gems, Mr. A took a Grab taxi to Suvarnabhumi Airport. Immigration records show he departed Thailand on July 17 bound for Switzerland.
How A Massage Can Ease Your Pain And Boost Immunity
Are you feeling achy after a challenging workout? Or maybe chronic pain is dampening your daily life?
Massage therapy can be a powerful tool for managing pain, but its benefits extend far beyond just easing aches and knots. Regular massage sessions can also act as a natural immune system booster, keeping you feeling your best inside and out.
Soothing Sore Muscles and Managing Chronic Pain
Massage therapy works by manipulating the body’s soft tissues, including muscles, tendons, and fascia. This manipulation helps to:
Increase blood flow: Massage stimulates blood circulation, delivering fresh oxygen and nutrients to tired muscles and accelerating the removal of waste products that contribute to pain and stiffness.
Reduce inflammation: Massage helps to break down lactic acid and other inflammatory mediators that cause pain and swelling.
Improve muscle tone: Massage can help to release muscle tension and tightness, improving flexibility and range of motion. This can be particularly beneficial for chronic pain conditions like arthritis or fibromyalgia.
The Science Behind Massage and Pain Relief
Studies have shown that massage therapy can be an effective tool for pain management. Research published in the Journal of the American Pain Society found that massage therapy was just as effective as medication in reducing chronic lower back pain.
Another study published in the International Journal of Nursing Studies showed that massage therapy helped to reduce pain and improve sleep quality in people with fibromyalgia.
Massage and the Immune System
Massage isn’t just about physical benefits. It can also have a significant impact on your immune system. Here’s how:
Stress Reduction: Chronic stress can suppress the immune system, making you more susceptible to illness. Massage therapy is a well-known stress reliever, helping to lower cortisol levels (the stress hormone) and promoting relaxation. This can create a more favorable environment for your immune system to function effectively.
Improved Lymphatic Drainage: The lymphatic system is a network of vessels that helps remove waste products and toxins from the body. Massage can stimulate lymphatic drainage, allowing your body to eliminate potentially harmful substances and improve overall immune function.
Increased White Blood Cell Activity: Some studies suggest that massage therapy may increase the activity of white blood cells, which are essential for fighting off infection.
Regular Massage for Optimal Health
While a single massage session can offer temporary pain relief and relaxation, incorporating regular massage therapy into your wellness routine can provide long-term benefits for your physical and mental health.
Wellness Massages at Chiva-Som
What better way to unwind than by the beach in Thailand? Introducing Chiva-Som, a luxurious beachfront wellness retreat in Hua Hin offering a variety of massage treatments designed to address your specific needs. Whether you’re seeking pain relief, stress reduction, or simply a moment of pure relaxation – Chiva-Som can offer it all.
Chiva-Som provides a comprehensive range of holistic wellness experiences, including personalized health consultations, fitness programs, and healthy cuisine. At Chiva-Som, you can truly invest in your well-being and emerge feeling rejuvenated, both physically and mentally.
So why wait? Book your stay at Chiva-Som today and discover the transformative power of massage and holistic wellness in Hua Hin.
