BANGKOK, 13 Jan 2015 – Region 4 Army Commander Lt. Gen. Prakan Chonlayuth has indicated that the civil society plays a key role in motivating the public to participate in official efforts to establish peace in the southern region.
Lt. Gen. Prakan said that the Army has held more discussions with the civil sector as part of its strategies to create understanding with locals about the situation in the area.
He explained that civil society agencies have close ties with locals and thus serve as excellent media to convey government messages to them. Realizing this, the Army has opened a stage at all levels to discuss the situation with private sector units, merchants, NGOs, even those who hold opposite ideas.
The commander said the move would bring those organizations closer to the Government and that they would understand the officials’ plans, budgeting, and strategies. He hoped that these units would later spread their understanding to local residents.
