NONTHABURI — Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has stressed the importance of strengthening Thailand’s defence readiness in the upcoming fiscal year 2027 budget, warning that military capability must be sufficient to deter potential external threats amid rising global instability.
Speaking at a budget policy seminar at IMPACT Muang Thong Thani on 20 April, Anutin said the world is facing heightened volatility, including ongoing conflicts in the Middle East that are affecting global energy security and economic conditions.
He said the government must adapt by improving efficiency and reducing unnecessary spending, ensuring that every budget item delivers maximum benefit to the country.
The proposed fiscal year 2027 budget stands at 3.788 trillion baht, an increase of 7.4 billion baht, or 0.2% from the previous year. Anutin said the plan must be “precise and targeted” in line with the government’s 10-plus policy framework aimed at steering Thailand through economic challenges and toward long-term sustainable growth.
He outlined five key policy areas: economic development, foreign affairs and national security, social development including disaster and environmental management, public sector reform, and anti-corruption measures.
On energy policy, the prime minister called for an accelerated transition toward clean and renewable energy, urging government agencies to adopt electric vehicles and expand solar rooftop installations where possible to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
On national defence, Anutin said the government places strong importance on military readiness and sovereignty protection.
He stressed that weapons and military equipment must be fully prepared and capable, warning that Thailand must not appear vulnerable to potential threats.
“We must not allow opposing forces to think they can invade our country at any time,” he said.
He instructed the armed forces and the Bureau of the Budget to ensure careful planning of defence capability, adding that military strength is essential to protecting sovereignty, dignity, and national security.
“The land of Thailand must appear only on Thailand’s map,” he said.
Anutin reaffirmed that government work is guided by three core principles: protecting the nation, religion, and monarchy; upholding democratic governance with the King as head of state; and ensuring fair enforcement of the law.
He urged all agencies to work together to drive national development while maintaining strong defence readiness and long-term stability.
