OTOP Mid Year Event To Revive the Success of Community Products

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10 June 2024, 19:16

otop anutin2 — Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, Minister of Interior, looks at the high-quality products in the OTOP MID YEAR 2024 event, on June 10, 2024.

NONTHABURI – The OTOP MID YEAR 2024 event, which is taking place now at IMPACT Exhibition and Convention Center, is one of the efforts by the current government to revive the success of the project that was once highly prosperous during the government of Thaksin Shinawatra.

One Tambon, One Product (OTOP) is a local entrepreneurship stimulation project designed by Thailand’s former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra during his Thai Rak Thai government from 2001 to 2006. The OTOP scheme is a self-help effort in which rural communities collaborate to create a product that can be sold both locally and internationally.

otop anutin1 — Anutin Charnvirakul, Minister of Interior, and delegation preside over the opening ceremony of the OTOP MID YEAR 2024 event.

Drawing inspiration from Japan’s successful One Village, One Product (OVOP) programme, the OTOP programme encourages village communities to improve the quality and marketing of local products by selecting one superior product from each tambon to receive formal branding as a “starred OTOP product.”

The latest OTOP showcase and sale event, held from June 8 to 16, 2024, was officially opened on June 10 by Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, Minister of Interior. He said that Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin assigned him to preside over the opening ceremony to emphasize that the government has a policy to reduce social inequality by encouraging people to have careers, jobs, and income.

The government attaches importance to the expansion and support of OTOP product development through the development of producers, promotion of entrepreneurs, upgrading the quality and standards of 3-5 star products, and increasing marketing channels.

“People can support the products, making the event lively. The more purchasing power there is, the more encouraged the entrepreneurs will be to further develop the quality of OTOP products because every OTOP product is produced by Thai people, using Thai materials and Thai labour, and adds value to Thailand,” he said.

otop kriang1 — Mr. Kriang Kaltinan, Deputy Minister of Interior

Mr. Kriang Kaltinan, Deputy Minister of Interior, stated that the first day of the event had a good response as expected. The first day’s sales reached 66,433,310 baht, while the total orders were 4,321,673 baht, resulting in 70,754,983 baht.

On the second day, more than 30,000 people attended, and in the first two days, each zone had a total sales of over 142 million baht combined.

This year’s event showcased unique wisdom that reflects the local culture in each region. The event featured product exhibitions, demonstrations, and sales in over 60,000 square meters. Over 2,000 booths presented OTOP 3 to 5-star products, inviting visitors to sample items from over 160 stores nationwide. Additionally, the event included an OTOP artist zone with over 60 artists.

A designated area known as the Health & SPA zone allows participants to unwind in a serene Thai spa style. People are encouraged to relax in a calming environment while enjoying various health and relaxation massages.

Besides, “golden minute” activities are scheduled twice daily during the event. Throughout the nine days, there will be lottery drawings for lucky draws. To participate, buy 1,000 baht worth of products and you’ll receive a lucky draw coupon to win daily prizes worth more than 40,000 baht with larger prizes totaling more than 400,000 baht on the event’s final day.

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Mercedes-Benz Thailand Expands EV Production, 10 Years More With TAAP

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Khaosod English

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10 June 2024, 17:08

BANGKOK — Mercedes-Benz accelerates the expansion of its EV production base in Thailand, renewing its contract with Thonburi Automotive Assembly Plant (TAAP) for 10 years, extending the production base, after celebrating 45 years with 200,000 vehicles produced.

Chai Watcharong, a Thai government spokesperson, congratulated Mercedes-Benz (Thailand) on Monday for renewing its contract with Thonburi Car Assembly Plant Co., Ltd. for 10 years as a partner in car assembly and electric car battery production, focusing on the Circular Economy concept.

Mercedes-Benz has also responded to the policy of promoting the Circular Economy concept by delivering 2 MWh lithium-ion battery cells (Cellblocks) collected from high-voltage batteries used for testing in the production process to the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA) within this July.

The purpose is to utilize these cells for supporting research, development, and technology transfer to Thai society, as well as upgrading Thai personnel and supporting the testing of domestically produced electric vehicle batteries to meet world-class standards.

“This aligns with the government agencies’ efforts to increase the country’s potential to support production, be a crucial regional supply chain, and take action to support Thailand as a Future Mobility Hub,” he said.

Martin Schwenk, Chief Executive Officer and President of Mercedes-Benz Thailand Limited, stated that the industrial expertise of Thonburi Car Assembly Plant has perfectly matched the DNA of Mercedes-Benz. Additionally, they have collaborated to create a history of luxury cars that have been with Thai people for a long time and are outstanding in technology and innovation.

Currently, more than 13 car models are in production at the factory, including A-Class, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, GLA, GLC, GLE, GLS, C-Coupe, GLC-Coupe, CLS, Maybach S-Class, and EQS. Since 1979, the factory produced its 200,000th Mercedes-Benz vehicle in January.

ufa lion 168 — Martin Schwenk, Chief Executive Officer and President of Mercedes-Benz Thailand Limited, visits the Thonburi Automotive Assembly Plant in Samut Prakan.

Rattaphol Viriyapant, Chairman of Thonburi Automotive Assembly Plant Co., Ltd., stated that the company has expanded its automotive assembly line to cover all segments and support the production of batteries and the assembly of electric vehicles through the factory of Thonburi Energy Storage Manufacturing Co., Ltd. (TESM), which has initiated the production of batteries and the assembly of 100% electric vehicles, starting with the first model, the EQS 500 4MATIC AMG Premium.

“We remain committed to developing the quality of our factories and the potential of our personnel to ensure that all customers have confidence in every stage of production. This is to be a part of elevating the Thai automotive industry and creating a new legend for Mercedes-Benz vehicles in Thailand,” he said.

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The Main Takeaways After the Far Right Rocks European Politics, Sparking a Snap Election in France

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Associated Press

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10 June 2024, 15:43

European Election France — Supporters of French far-right National Rally react at the party election night headquarters, Sunday, June 9, 2024 in Paris. (AP Photo/Lewis Joly)

BRUSSELS (AP) — A four-day election has shaken the foundations of the European Union, with the far right rocking ruling parties in France and Germany, the bloc’s traditional driving forces. For the next five years it will be harder for the European Parliament to make decisions.

French President Emmanuel Macron called snap national elections after Marine Le Pen’s National Rally humbled his pro-European centrists in the polls. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s Social Democrats also suffered as the extreme-right Alternative for Germany shrugged off scandals to make massive gains.

In Italy, the party of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, which has neo-fascist roots, won more than 28% of the national vote for the EU assembly, which would make it a key player in forming future alliances.

u31 — Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni speaks about the results of the European Parliamentary elections at a press conference at the Fratelli d’Italia party electoral committee in Rome, Monday, June 10, 2024. (Roberto Monaldo/LaPresse via AP)

Green and pro-business liberal groups across Europe suffered heavy defeats, but mainstream formations held their ground, with the center-right European People’s Party remaining the biggest bloc in the 27-nation EU’s assembly.

POLITICAL EARTHQUAKE IN FRANCE

Voters in France will return to the polls in just three weeks after Macron dissolved parliament and called snap national elections. Le Pen’s anti-immigration, nationalist party was estimated to get around 31%-32% of the vote. While a National Rally win was expected, the scale of the victory was a surprise, more than doubling the share of Macron’s Renaissance party, which was projected to reach around 15%. It should become clear by mid-July whether a weakened Macron will be forced to work with a far-right government in an uncomfortable “cohabitation.”

SCANDALS DO LITTLE TO HARM GERMANY’S HARD RIGHT

Scholz’s ruling Social Democrats recorded their worst post-World War II result in a nationwide vote, with 13.9%. Alternative for Germany finished second with around 15.9%. The far-right party suffered a string of recent setbacks, including scandals surrounding its two lead candidates in the EU parliament elections. But voters appear to have shrugged them off. The result is better than the AfD’s 11% in 2019 but still short of poll ratings earlier this year. Germany’s opposition center-right Union bloc took 30% of the vote.

w69 — A damaged election poster shows German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Frankfurt, Germany, Monday, June 10, 2024. (AP Photo/Michael Probst)

THE PRO-EUROPEAN CENTER HOLDS

The center-right European People’s Party is projected to win 191 seats in the EU assembly and remains by far the biggest group. The EPP garnered a few more seats, but the parliament is also expanding from 705 seats in 2019 to 720 seats this year, so the increase was marginal. The second-biggest bloc, the center-left Socialists and Democrats, lost some ground but with 135 seats comfortably retains its place. EPP lead candidate Ursula von der Leyen had flirted with parties to the right during election campaigning, but after early results were announced she called on the socialists and pro-business liberals to work together in a pro-European alliance.

GREENS AND LIBERALS TAKE A HIT

The environmentalist Greens were perhaps the biggest losers overall. They are likely to lose around 20 seats in the EU parliament, almost a third of their tally from 2019. A series of protests across Europe by farmers angered at the burden imposed by new climate laws helped to damage their chances. The EU considers itself a world leader in combating global warming. Senior members had hoped that Greens parties already in government in places like Germany would hold their ground. But projections suggested that Germany’s Greens, the second-biggest party in Scholz’s coalition, would fall from a peak of 20.5% five years ago to around 12%. Liberal parties across Europe, including Macron’s, were also expected to give away a combined 20 seats in the assembly, making them the other biggest losers in this election.

AP24161520484015 — Empty envelopes of postal ballots for the European elections lie on the floor in a hall of the fair sound in Frankfurt, Germany, Sunday, June 9, 2024. (AP Photo/Michael Probst)

WHAT’S NEXT?

Senior party officials and number-crunchers are meeting Monday to work out what kind of groups and alliances might be formed in the parliament for the next five years. Party presidents will hold their first formal talks on Tuesday. One thing is clear: The results will slow decision-making and the passing of legislation on issues ranging from climate change to farm subsidies. EU presidents and prime ministers will hold a summit on June 17 to take stock of the results. They will also discuss whether to return von der Leyen to the helm of the EU’s powerful executive branch, the European Commission.

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Fine Arts Dept. Defends 400-year-old Lanna-style Stucco Giants Restoration

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Khaosod English

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10 June 2024, 15:22

lanna giant1 — Before and after combination picture of the Lanna-style giant sculpture at Wat Umong Suan Phutthatham, a famous temple in Chiang Mai Province, which was restored by the Fine Arts Department team.

BANGKOK — After being widely criticized over the weekend about the restoration of more than 400-year-old Lanna-style giant statues in a Chiang Mai temple, where the cement coating made the statues look completely rebuilt, the Fine Arts Department defends its work.

On June 10, Mr. Phanombuth Jantarachoti, Director-General of the Fine Arts Department, told ‘Matichon’ that this topic naturally has both supporters and critics. He insisted that the Fine Arts Department team has documented all the evidence and steps of the restoration process at Wat Umong Suan Phutthatham in the Mueang district of Chiang Mai province.

Earlier, Assistant Professor Dr. Surachai Chongchitngam, a lecturer at the Faculty of Fine Arts, Chiang Mai University, has posted a complaint that Wat Umong Suan Phutthatham, a famous temple in Chiang Mai Province, has plastered cement over the statues, leaving no trace of the ancient artifacts. This act has diminished the value of these precious ancient artworks and caused damage to the arts.

pg168 — A layer of modeling has been placed over the original structure of the Lanna-style giant sculptures at Wat Umong Suan Phutthatham, Chiang Mai.

“The Lanna-style giant sculptures were originally in perfect condition, albeit very old, 400-500 years, and had unique characteristics that differed from the giant statues in Ayutthaya and Rattanakosin art in Bangkok. Therefore, they held historical value that is rare and should be preserved,” Assistant Professor Dr. Surachai stated.

He also call for the person responsible for the idea of the restoration and the one who funded it should come forward and take responsibility, along with the relevant authorities, and provide an explanation to the public.

Subsequently, Phra Khru Samuh Boonlert Chaiyavaso, the abbot, and Phra Phira, a monk responsible for overseeing the restoration of the two giants, stated that earlier this year, the governor of Chiang Mai visited the temple. Impressed by the site, he noticed the damaged statues and coordinated with the Fine Arts Department for their restoration, which was completed several months ago.

“The entire temple is already listed by the Fine Arts Department, meaning the temple has no right to carry out restoration work on its own. Our role is only to observe and facilitate the work of the officials handling the restoration,” the monks said.

h25 — Phra Khru Samuh Boonlert Chaiyavaso, the abbot of Wat Umong Suan Phutthatham in Chiang Mai, stated that the temple has no right to carry out restoration work on its own.

Director-General of the Fine Arts Department explained that Wat Umong is a tourist attraction where many people come to pray. The temple houses two huge statues that are in a dilapidated state as sand and gravel are falling from the stucco. Therefore, Chiang Mai Province has talked to the Fine Arts Department about restoring these sculptures.

The Department of Fine Arts then provided a budget for the restoration of the two giants. There were two options for the restoration method. The first was traditional restoration, which carried a high risk of further damage.

The second method the restoration team decided on was to place a layer or modeling over the original structure of the giants. This method not only protects the original stucco layer, but also restores the full form of the statues and prevents them from becoming ruins.

lanna giant3 — A layer of modeling has been placed over the original structure of the Lanna-style giant sculptures at Wat Umong Suan Phutthatham, Chiang Mai.

After discussions with the province, the Fine Arts Department opted for the second method, as the temple is still a major tourist attraction with many devotees. This method was carefully considered in terms of artistic style. If there was insufficient evidence, the method could not have been used. The department commissioned suitable local craftsmen to carry out the restoration.

The chosen method aimed to restore the statues to their original, complete state, referring to ancient art forms, such as adding elements based on historical evidence found on the hands of the giants. This process was based on thorough research, which was not about giving old statues a new look, but restoring them according to traditional art styles.

“The records of this restoration have been archived in the Chiang Mai archives. As a result, there will be evidence of the methods and reasoning applied in this year’s restoration, even 50 or 100 years from now,” said Mr. Phanombuth.

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IEEE PES Thailand Announces Readiness to Host the 10th IEEE International Smart Cities Conference to Elevate Smart Cities

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Contributor

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10 June 2024, 15:11

IEEE Power & Energy Society (PES) Thailand Chapter held a press conference announcing the 10th IEEE International Smart Cities Conference under the main theme “Smart Cities: Revolution for Mankind.” The event featured Mr. Wilas Chaloeysat, Chairman of IEEE Power & Energy Society – Thailand and Governor of the Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA) to assign Mr. Somchai Homklinkaew, Senior Vice Chairman, IEEE Power & Energy Society – Thailand and Deputy Governor, Power System Planning and Innovation at the Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA) join with Associate Professor Dr. Nopbhorn Leeprechanon IEEE PES Vice Chair Meeting and Conference and Associate Professor Dr. Supavadee Aramvith Chair of IEEE Thailand Section in conjunction with Associate Professor Dr. Montri Wiboonrat, Conference Chair of ISC2 2024 and Dr. Jaruwan Suwannasat, Director of MICE Intelligence and Innovation Department and Acting Executive Advisor at the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB). The press conference took place at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center.

Associate Professor Dr. Nopbhorn Leeprechanon, IEEE PES Vice Chair Meeting and Conference shared “This marks a significant opportunity for Thailand, as it is the first time that this international smart city and energy event will be held in the country and in Southeast Asia. Previously, the IEEE International Smart Cities Conference has been held annually in various countries across Europe and America, covering both academic conferences and international exhibitions.”

Led by Mr. Wilas Chaloeysat, Chairman of IEEE Power & Energy Society – Thailand “The IEEE PES Thailand Chapter is the main organizer for the 10th IEEE International Smart Cities Conference (IEEE-ISC2-2024), scheduled to take place from October 29 to November 1, 2024, at the Royal Cliff Grand Hotel in Pattaya, Chonburi. Under the theme “Smart Cities: Revolution for Mankind,” the conference is now accepting academic and research papers. This platform allows researchers, academics, developers, and students in engineering, technology, and innovation to share their work and collaborate on smart city development. It also provides an opportunity for the exchange of knowledge, ideas, and experiences with smart city leaders from both national and international levels.”

Additionally, the event will feature an exhibition showcasing innovations and technologies related to smart cities. This is a prime opportunity for Thailand to demonstrate its capabilities in smart city development, stimulate research and innovation, promote cooperation in smart city development, and build sustainable international networks among smart city development leaders.

Prof. Georges Sissis, Chair of IEEE Smart Cities, stated in his online keynote address, “IEEE Smart Cities aims to be a leading professional organization engaged with stakeholders in developing sustainability, resilience, equity, and privacy. Respecting the needs of diverse communities, businesses, and industries, we focus on smart cities technologies and systems that meet these varied demands. I extend my gratitude to all supporters from government, private sectors, and associations who recognize the importance of this conference.”

Associate Professor Dr. Montri Viboonratanakij, Conference Chair of ISC2 2024, commented, “Smart Cities represent the advanced technology of the modern era. These advancements help us optimize energy use, reduce waste, and minimize carbon emissions. The era of carbon reduction is not just about technology but also about creating livable and resilient communities, empowering citizens to make sustainable choices, promoting the green economy, and ensuring that new smart cities grow in harmony with the environment.”

Associate Professor Dr. Nopbhorn Leeprechanon, IEEE PES Vice Chair Meeting and Conference mentioned “Today’s press conference was attended by supporters from various organizations, including state enterprises, associations, and private sectors. Supporters include the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT), Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA), Provincial Electricity Authority, PTT Public Company Limited, Digital Economy Promotion Agency (DEPA), Board of Investment (BOI), Engineering Institute of Thailand under H.M. the King’s Patronage, as well as leading international companies like Hitachi Energy (Thailand) and Schneider Electric (Thailand) as diamond sponsors, and other supporters. This shows the significance all sectors place on the upcoming conference and exhibition.”

The main target groups for the 2024 IEEE International Smart Cities Conference include experts, researchers, developers, academics, students, policy analysts, architects, engineers from government and private sectors, civil society, and the general public involved in engineering, technology, and smart city innovations, as well as smart city executives and leading entrepreneurs from national and international levels. The event is expected to attract 500-700 participants.

Join us for the 10th IEEE International Smart Cities Conference (IEEE-ISC2-2024) under the main theme “Smart Cities: Revolution for Mankind” from October 29 to November 1, 2024, at the Royal Cliff Grand Hotel, Pattaya, Chonburi.

Thailand Crowns First-Ever Red Bull Dance Your Style Champion

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Contributor

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10 June 2024, 14:35

THAILAND, JUNE 8 2024 – The energy was palpable at the Red Bull Dance Your Style Thailand National Finals, held on June 8 at the iconic Hua Lamphong train station in Bangkok. The intense battle rounds of unadulterated skill, set to unpredictable tunes, culminated in Red Bull naming 21 year-old popping dancer, Stefanos Koukas, from Pattaya as the first-ever Red Bull Dance Your Style Thailand National Champion, giving him the wings to soar to the global stage.

Stefanos bested 15 of the country’s top dancers. He is now bound for Mumbai, India for a once-in-a-lifetime chance to compete against the best dance talents from 50 other countries as the exclusive representative of Thailand at the Red Bull Dance Your Style World Finals.

The finalists gave their all during the competition until it was down to Stefanos and Gun The Zoo (Mr. Woragun Ngamchuensuwan), a 32 year-old hip-hop dancer from Songkla, to battle it out for the crown. Stefanos’ musicality and impeccable precision in hitting every beat to a diverse selection of songs captivated the audience, who also served as the competition’s judges. This earned him the top spot and the chance to compete against the world’s elite dancers.

Photo Credit: Kaoru Kuptsov / Red Bull Content Pool

“It was a great experience, and it was so much fun,” stated Stefanos. “I enjoyed every moment, especially the final round where I was pushed to double my energy!”

Since beginning his dance journey 15 years ago, Stefanos has dedicated countless hours to perfecting his craft. As he prepares to go head-to-head with the finest dancers from all over the world, Stefanos is even more determined to bring his A-game, making sure he is physically and mentally ready for what is certain to be a fierce competition. He expressed his excitement and enthusiasm in being Thailand’s representative for the Red Bull Dance Your Style World Finals.

“I would like to thank everyone coming here to cheer me on at this national final round, and I am so excited to go to the world finals in India because I have been watching this competition for so long. I can’t wait!” exclaimed Stefanos.

Stefanos’ crowning as the first-ever Red Bull Dance Your Style Thailand National Champion marks a historic event for the country’s dance scene.

Red Bull’s Dance Consultant, Tai – Darika Sangnak, reflected on this momentous occasion saying, “This was a groundbreaking moment for dance in Thailand.” She added, “It’s not just an opportunity to showcase the incredible talent we have but also a significant step towards paving the way for future generations of dancers. I believe Red Bull Dance Your Style will inspire young dancers across the country to pursue their dreams and elevate the art form to new heights.”

Photo Credit: Sean Chen / Red Bull Content Pool

Don’t miss the Red Bull Dance Your Style World Final, happening on November 9, 2024 at Dome, NSCI in Mumbai, India. See you there!

Celebrate Stefanos’ win and follow his journey to the world stage by visiting Red Bull’s social media pages (TikTok | Instagram | Facebook) and its website, and Red Bull’s official dance accounts (TikTok | Instagram)

The Private Sector Trade delegations from the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire attended the THAIFEX ANUGA ASIA 2024.

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Contributor

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10 June 2024, 11:40

Miss Patcharapimol Youngprapakorn, Honorary Consul of the Republic of Cote d’Ivoire in Thailand, welcomed the Private Sector trade delegations from the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast) attended the THAIFEX ANUGA ASIA 2024 at Impact Muang Thong Thani Exhibition Center in Nonthaburi, Thailand, during 28 May – 1 June 2024.

The 11 participants from the Private Sector trade delegations from the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire, were comprised of the representatives from various trade federations, which were from the Small and Medium Enterprises Association; Bread and Bakery Entrepreneurs’ Federation, National Federation of Hotel Industry of Ivory Coast, Association of Travel Professionals of Ivory Coast, Tourism Owners Association, Tourism Development Fund, and Advisory organizations including expert for development.

During the event, the CI group visited various Thai food products’ booths such as Mama, Farmhouse, Sea Value, etc., as well as meeting Thai businessmen/businesswomen who were interested in exporting various types of products to the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire and West Africa. CI Group were interested especially in food and beverage products, technology equipment in food and agricultural sector, and hotel industry.

Moreover, they are interested in having cooperation with Thailand in tourism, hotels and small & medium enterprises (SMEs). They are also inviting interested Thai investors to invest in the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast) and in West Africa.

Next year, the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire will organize the West Africa Economic Forum and invite Thailand to participate as well. On this occasion, the CI delegation met with the Thai Trade Representative, Dr. Nalinee Taveesin, and discussed and asked for advice on how to strengthen the economic relations between CI and Thailand in both the public and private sectors.

Miss Patcharapimol Youngprapakorn, Honorary Consul of the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire in Thailand, also arranged CI Group to visit Buono (Thailand) Co., Ltd. – food, bakery, and ice-cream factory; visited Navavej Hospital to see how they applied the innovative solar cell system with their business, the solar cells were located in the parking lot beside the entrance and on the roof of the hospital.

They also visit the Diagnostic Radiology Learning Center in collaboration between Philips and Navavej Hospital, Heart and Thoracic Center, and various types of hospital rooms that are modern and comfortable. In addition, the group also visited the Samutprakarn Crocodile Farm & Zoo (Thailand), which has been a popular tourist destination for both Thais and foreigners for more than 50 years.

Their last visit was the Maison Hotel Bangkok, a new hotel in the heart of the Bangkok, which perfectly combines modernness and Thai traditional identity with style. The CI group also tasted Thai food specially prepared at the hotel restaurant.

If you are interesting to invest, to contact business person, or to find out more information about Cote d’Ivoire, please contact the Consulate of the Republic of Cote d’Ivoire in Thailand at our email: [email protected]

Phuket Lifeguards Save Toddler, American Father Swept Away

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Khaosod English

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9 June 2024, 23:47

american drown2 — A lifeguard goes out to rescue the 3-and-a-half-year-old son back to shore.

PHUKET — An American man took his Thai wife and their 3-and-a-half-year-old child to go swimming in the sea in Phuket province on Sunday afternoon, which should have been a happy holiday. However, they encountered a tragedy when a wave swept him away.

Officers from Chalong Police Station in Phuket received a report of a drowning incident at Nai Han Beach, Rawai Subdistrict. They went to investigate and notified the diving team from the Phuket Kusoldham Foundation and Rawai Municipality officials to inspect and conduct a search.

Arun Solos, the mayor of Rawai Subdistrict, said that at 4:45 p.m., while the three were in the sea about 10 meters from the shore, they were pulled by the current into deeper waters. The Thai wife managed to bring herself back to shore. Then, lifeguards went out to rescue the 3-and-a-half-year-old son back to shore, but the American man was swept away by the waves and disappeared.

The diving team from the Phuket Kusoldham Foundation tried to search for Mr. James Everett Du Bois, 49 years old, with great difficulty due to the rising tide and strong winds. Until 8:30 p.m., when it was dark, the foundation’s underwater operation team had to suspend the dive for safety reasons and will resume the search on the morning of Monday, June 10.

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A World War II Veteran Just Married His Bride Near Normandy’s D-Day Beaches. He’s 100, She’s 96

By

Associated Press

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9 June 2024, 20:05

CARENTAN-LES-MARAIS, France (AP) — Together, the collective age of the bride and groom was nearly 200. But World War II veteran Harold Terens and his sweetheart Jeanne Swerlin proved that love is eternal as they tied the knot Saturday inland of the D-Day beaches in Normandy, France.

Their respective ages — he’s 100, she’s a youngster of just 96 — made their nuptials an almost double-century celebration.

Terens called it ″the best day of my life.″

On her way into the nuptials, the bubbly bride-to-be said: “It’s not just for young people, love, you know? We get butterflies. And we get a little action, also.″

AP24160424834484 — US WWII veteran Harold Terens, 100, left, and Jeanne Swerlin, 96, celebrate their wedding at the town hall of Carentan-les-Marais, in Normandy, northwestern France, on Saturday, June 8, 2024. (AP Photo/Jeremias Gonzalez)

The location was the elegant stone-worked town hall of Carentan, a key initial D-Day objective that saw ferocious fighting after the June 6, 1944, Allied landings that helped rid Europe of Adolf Hitler’s tyranny.

Like other towns and villages across the Normandy coast where nearly 160,000 Allied troops came ashore under fire on five code-named beaches, it’s an effervescent hub of remembrance and celebration on the 80th anniversary of the deeds and sacrifices of young men and women that day, festooned with flags and bunting and with veterans feted like rockstars.

As the swing of Glenn Miller and other period tunes rang out on the streets, well-wishers — some in WWII-period clothes — were already lined up a good hour before the wedding, behind barriers outside the town hall, with a rousing pipe and drum band also on hand to serenade the happy couple.

After both declaring “oui” to vows read by Carentan’s mayor in English, the couple exchanged rings.

“With this ring, I thee wed,” Terens said.

She giggled and gasped, “Really?”

With Champagne flutes in hand, they waved through an open window to the adoring crowds outside.

AP24160424396064 — US WWII veteran Harold Terens, 100, center left, and Jeanne Swerlin, 96, arrive to celebrate their wedding at the town hall of Carentan-les-Marais, in Normandy, northwestern France, on Saturday, June 8, 2024. Together, the collective age of the bride and groom was nearly 200. But Terens and his sweetheart Jeanne Swerlin proved that love is eternal as they tied the knot Saturday inland of the D-Day beaches in Normandy, France. (AP Photo/Jeremias Gonzalez)

“To everybody’s good health. And to peace in the world and the preservation of democracy all over the world and the end of the war in Ukraine and Gaza,” Terens said as he and his bride then clinked glasses and drank.

The crowd yelled “la mariée!” – the bride! — to Swerlin, who wore a long flowing dress of vibrant pink. Terens looked dapper in a light blue suit and matching pink kerchief in his breast pocket.

And they enjoyed a very special wedding-night party: They were invited to the state dinner at the Elysee Palace on Saturday night with President Emmanuel Macron and U.S. President Joe Biden.

“Congratulations to the newlyweds,” Macron said, prompting cheers and a standing ovation from other guests during the toast praising French-American friendship. “(The town of) Carentan was happy to host your wedding, and us, your wedding dinner,” he told the couple.

The wedding was symbolic, not binding in law. Mayor Jean-Pierre Lhonneur’s office said he wasn’t empowered to wed foreigners who aren’t residents of Carentan, and that the couple, who are both American, hadn’t requested legally binding vows. However, they could always complete those formalities back in Florida if they wished.

Lhonneur likes to say that Normandy is practically the 51st state of the USA, given its reverence and gratitude for Allied soldiers and the sacrifices of tens of thousands who never made it home from the Battle of Normandy.

“Love is eternal, yes, maybe,” the mayor said, referring to the newlyweds, although his comments also fittingly describe the feelings of many Normans for veterans.

“I hope for them the best happiness together.”

AP24160424872157 — US WWII veteran Harold Terens, 100, left, and Jeanne Swerlin, 96, kiss from a window after celebrating their wedding at the town hall of Carentan-les-Marais, in Normandy, northwestern France, on Saturday, June 8, 2024. (AP Photo/Jeremias Gonzalez)

Dressed in a 1940s dress that belonged to her mother, Louise, and a red beret, 73-year-old Jane Ollier was among spectators who waited for a glimpse of the lovebirds. The couple, both widowed, grew up in New York City: she in Brooklyn, he in the Bronx.

“It’s so touching to get married at that age,” Ollier said. “If it can bring them happiness in the last years of their lives, that’s fantastic.”

The WWII veteran first visited France as a 20-year-old U.S. Army Air Forces corporal shortly after D-Day. Terens enlisted in 1942 and, after shipping to Britain, was attached to a four-pilot P-47 Thunderbolt fighter unit as their radio repair technician.

On D-Day, Terens helped repair planes returning from France so they could rejoin the battle. He said half his company’s pilots died that day. Terens himself went to France 12 days later, helping transport freshly captured Germans and just-freed American POWs to England. Following the Nazi surrender in May 1945, Terens again helped transport freed Allied prisoners to England before he shipped back to the U.S. a month later.

Swerlin made it abundantly clear that her new centenarian husband doesn’t lack for rizz.

“He’s the greatest kisser ever, you know?” she proudly declared before they embraced enthusiastically for TV cameras.

“All right ! That’s it for now !” Terens said as he came up for air.

To which she quickly quipped: “You mean there’s more later?”

___

Move Forward Party Braces for Court Case that Might Dissolve It

By

Associated Press

-

9 June 2024, 13:58

Thailand Politics — Former leader of Move Forward party Pita Limjaroenrat, center, talks to reporters during a news conference at the party's office in Bangkok, Thailand, Sunday, June 9, 2024. (AP Photo/Jintamas Saksornchai)

BANGKOK (AP) — The former leader of Thailand’s progressive opposition Move Forward party vowed on Sunday to keep fighting as the party faces a court case that could result in its dissolution.

The Constitutional Court has agreed to rule on whether the party violated the constitution by proposing to amend a law that forbids defaming the country’s royal family. The petition requested the party’s dissolution and a 10-year ban on political activity by its executives. The court has not said when it will rule on this case.

Pita Limjaroenrat, the former leader of Move Forward, laid out the details of the party’s legal defenses that have been submitted to the court at a news conference on Sunday.

“If there is a rule of law in Thailand, I’m extremely confident” the party’s arguments will prevail, he said.

Pita said the Constitutional Court does not have jurisdiction to rule on this case and that the petition filed by the Election Commission did not follow due process because Move Forward was not given an opportunity to defend itself before the case was submitted to the court.

The petition was filed after the same court ruled in January that the party must stop advocating changes to the law, known as Article 112 in Thailand’s criminal codes, which protects the monarchy from criticism by imposing penalties of three to 15 years in jail per offense.

That ruling did not set any punishment for the party.

Move Forward shook up Thai politics by winning the most seats in the general election last year but was blocked from taking power and has since been fighting several legal battles to keep its positions in Parliament. These legal cases are seen as part of a yearslong attack against the country’s progressive movement by conservative forces trying to keep their grip on power.

Move Forward’s predecessor, the Future Forward party, was dissolved by the Constitutional Court in 2020 for violating election laws on donations to political parties.

Move Forward has insisted that it wants to keep the monarchy above politics and not be exploited as a political tool.

AP24161135343108 — Former leader of Move Forward party Pita Limjaroenrat, right, talks to reporters during a news conference at the party’s office in Bangkok, Thailand, Sunday, June 9, 2024. (AP Photo/Jintamas Saksornchai)

Thailand’s monarchy is considered untouchable but student-led pro-democracy protests, triggered by the dissolution of Future Forward in 2020, began to challenge that sentiment by openly criticizing the monarchy. That led to vigorous prosecutions under the law, which critics say is often used as a tool to quash political dissent.

The advocacy group Thai Lawyers for Human Rights says that since early 2020, more than 270 people have been charged with violating Article 112. Some of those are Move Forward’s own lawmakers.

Thailand’s courts, especially the Constitutional Court, are considered a bulwark of the country’s traditional royalist establishment, which has used them and nominally independent state agencies such as the Election Commission to issue rulings to cripple or sink political opponents.

Pita warned that getting rid of the country’s largest opposition party would mean “an attack on democracy” as it would weaken the mechanism of checks and balances on the government.

“The strength of democracy is not about how robust the government is, but how fair and active the opposition is,” he said.

The Move Forward party finished first in the 2023 general election after campaigning to amend Article 112 and introduce other democratic reforms. The victory indicated that many Thai voters were ready for change after nearly a decade of military-controlled government.

But the military-installed Senate blocked the party from taking power by refusing to confirm Pita, who was the party’s candidate for prime minister. Senators said they opposed Pita because of his intention to enact reforms to the monarchy.

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