BANGKOK, May 14 – Thailand today urged activists and NGOs not to protest at the 2nd Asia Pacific Water Summit now being held in Chiang Mai, saying the rallies could negatively affect the country’s image.
Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra made her remarks as environmental activists had earlier announced that they will rally at the Chiang Mai’s International Convention and Exhibition Centre Commemorating His Majesty’s 7th Cycle Birthday Anniversary, the venue of the regional summit.
Ms Yingluck said the ongoing summit focuses on discussing water resources and has nothing to do with the protesters’ opposed projects.
Minister Attached to the Prime Minister’s Office Niwatthamrong Boonsongpaisan said this is a meeting continuing since the Abhisit Vejjajiva administration and that the government will not talk about its water management projects at this forum.
Mr Niwatthamrong said the summit will be attended by leaders of many countries and will discuss water problems at the global level, as well as Thailand’s flooding in 2011 and its sustainable solutions.
The minister said many countries have faced similar flooding as Thailand. Their conclusions to be considered at the summit will join those of ASEAN countries to find regional solutions.
Mr Niwatthamrong also urged the activists to be good hosts and help retain the good reputation of the country as the meeting is both an academic meeting and a global summit.
He said the government is ready to provide another venue for them to express their demands.
