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77-511: The first meeting or No. 1/2023 was held on October 3, 2023, after the Cabinet meeting. In addition, a National Soft Power Development Committee has been appointed, to drive soft power policies in various areas and present them to the plenary committee with Paetongtarn as chairwoman of the board. The National Soft Power Strategy Committee was established with the objective of setting goals for driving government policy (1 family 1 soft power) to integrate

154-563: A coup in 1933. The longest-serving prime minister was Field Marshal Plaek Phibunsongkhram at 14 years, 11 months, and 18 days. The shortest was Thawi Bunyaket at just 18 days. Nine were removed by coups d'état , three were disqualified by court order, and eleven resigned from office. The youngest ever to occupy office was M.R. Seni Pramoj at 40 years old. Thailand received its first female prime minister, Yingluck Shinawatra , in 2011. Every prime minister since Manopakorn Nititada has been Buddhist. The current 2017 constitution states that

231-640: A bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from Chulalongkorn University , followed by a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the University of Massachusetts Amherst . He further advanced his academic credentials by earning a Master of Business Administration, specialising in Finance, from Claremont Graduate University . Srettha began his professional journey at Procter & Gamble as an assistant product manager,

308-734: A budget of 5,164 million baht as follows: The budget will be reviewed with the Bureau of the Budget by December 14, 2023, before being sent to the National Soft Power Strategy Committee for consideration again on January 9, 2024. Later on January 4, 2024, the National Softpower Development Committee Meeting No. 1/2024 was held with a total of 3 matters being considered: Amending the film censorship process, establishing One Stop Service, and proposing

385-483: A coalition with Palang Pracharath and United Thai Nation , citing their roles in the 2014 coup . Following the election on 14 May, Pheu Thai emerged as the party with the second-highest number of seats, trailing behind the Move Forward Party . The party then formed a coalition with Move Forward and six other parties. However, in the first round of parliamentary voting on 13 July, Pita Limjaroenrat , Leader of

462-400: A coalition with BJT, saying that he aims to introduce cannabis laws within six-months. In November 2023, a draft bill seeking to restrict cannabis use failed. On 8 May 2024, Srettha announced he wished to see cannabis relisted as a narcotic by the end of 2024, restricting it to medical use only. He justified the policy U-turn by saying that drugs "destroys the future of the country." In July,

539-473: A complaint with the deputy commissioner-general of police, Surachate Hakparn , seeking an investigation into Srettha's 2019 land purchase in Bangkok. Chuwit accused Srettha and Sansiri of tax evasion. In response to these allegations, Srettha filed a defamation lawsuit for ฿500 million against Chuwit, specifically regarding comments made during a press conference on 3 August. The 2013–2014 Thai political crisis

616-495: A decade were detrimental to businesses and advocated for the Bank of Thailand to reduce these rates. The Governor of the Bank of Thailand held a different view. He disagreed with the characterisation of the economic state as a crisis. Furthermore, he expressed scepticism about the effectiveness of the government's short-term stimulus measures and argued that these measures would not address

693-417: A disconnect between the project's intentions and public perception. He also acknowledged that the government 's communication with international investors about the project's economic potential could have been more effective. Srettha worked actively on revitalising Thailand's tourism sector. On 25 September, tourists from China and Kazakhstan were exempted from tourist visas, aligning this policy change with

770-482: A famous film and series director, Worarit Nilklom, former host and director of the Y series and Nonglak Ngamroj, CEO of RS Multimedia and Entertainment Company Limited ( Channel 8 ) in dramas and series. Srettha Thavisin Srettha Thavisin MPCh MVM ( Thai : เศรษฐา ทวีสิน , RTGS :  Settha Thawisin , pronounced [sèːt.tʰǎː tʰā.wīː.sǐn] ; born 15 February 1962)

847-442: A high concentration of lithium. Experts from Chulalongkorn University have assessed that the average lithium content in these deposits, approximately 0.4%, is higher than similar deposits found globally. Nevertheless, there has been some debate among scientists and government officials regarding the potential impact of this discovery, particularly due to variations between the types of mineral resources present, including lepidolite,

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924-570: A lithium-containing mineral, and the actual lithium content in these deposits. Cannabis has been decriminalised in Thailand since June 2022. In the 2023 election, Pheu Thai and Srettha ran on an anti-drug platform that opposed the total liberalisation of cannabis use except in medical use. This placed Srettha in opposition to the Bhumjaithai Party (BJT), where cannabis liberalisation is a flagship policy. He continued his pledge even after forming

1001-648: A regional hub for concerts. Srettha prioritised strengthening the Thai passport, ranked 52nd most powerful by The Passport Index in 2024. In discussions with Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo in Switzerland, he explored the potential for easier entry to Europe for Thai passport holders. During German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier 's January 2024 visit to Thailand, Srettha appealed for support in securing visa exemptions for Thai passport holders from Schengen area member states. Additionally, Thailand aims to extend

1078-477: A rift between the two parties. In response to the shooting at Siam Paragon in Bangkok on 3 October, Srettha observed a minute of silence at the same location on the following day. During this event, he emphasised the importance of prevention, stating, "Let this be the only time this happens. My government insists we will give priority to preventive measures." Srettha contacted the Chinese ambassador to assure him of

1155-480: A role he held for four years after graduating from Claremont Graduate University in 1986. His entrepreneurial venture took off in 1988 when he co-founded Sansiri , which emerged as one of Thailand's premier real estate developers. His leadership steered the company to successfully develop over 400 residential projects. In 2013, Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra inaugurating the Thailand 2020: Thailand's New Step to

1232-590: A scandal for both Srettha and Yingluck. The Democrat Party , who were the main opposition party, called on a probe into the meeting and Democrat spokesman Chavanond Intarakomalyasut accused Yingluck of telling Srettha her government's flood prevention projects as she was due for a tour of flood affected provinces. Additionally, deputy spokeswoman Mallika Boonmeetrakul called on the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) to investiage Srettha's assets. On 17 August 2023, Chuwit Kamolvisit filed

1309-428: A very significant role in an otherwise absolutist system. During the reign of King Chulalongkorn , Prince Damrong Rajanubhab took over this role. In fact, the office most considered the precursor of that of the prime minister was the ancient office of Samuha Nayok (สมุหนายก), which was run by an Akkhra Maha Senabodi (อัครมหาเสนาบดี) or "chief minister in charge of civilian affairs". The first prime minister of Siam

1386-492: A visa exemption agreement which will take effect on 4 March 2024. On 17 October, the cabinet approved an extension of the visa-free stay for Russian tourists from 30 to 90 days. This decision was timed with the onset of the Russian winter season and coincided with the peak tourism period in Thailand. Russia ranks as the fifth highest in terms of visitors to Thailand, and the highest from Europe. The extended visa policy for Russians

1463-596: A visit to Phitsanulok province on 15 October 2023, Srettha announced the intention to start implementing this scheme in February 2024. However, the launch of the digital wallet scheme was postponed to May 2024. Since September, Srettha also advocated for a reduction in electricity and fuel costs within his cabinet. In terms of public reception, a survey conducted by the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA) indicated mixed responses. As of October 2023,

1540-483: Is a Thai businessman and politician who served as the 30th Prime Minister of Thailand from 2023 until his dismissal from the position by the Constitutional Court on 14 August 2024. In 1988, he co-founded Sansiri , a venture that propelled him to become a billionaire and a leading real estate tycoon within his country. During his almost one-year premiership, he oversaw economic policies aimed at stimulating

1617-489: Is set to begin in November and last until April 2024. This extension was announced in conjunction with a meeting between Srettha and Russian President Vladimir Putin . Further extending Thailand's visa exemption policy, Indian and Taiwanese travellers were also granted visa-free entry from 10 November 2023 to 10 May 2024. India is the fourth largest source of tourists to Thailand. As a culmination of these visa exemptions and

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1694-603: Is the head of government of Thailand . The prime minister is also the chair of the cabinet of Thailand . The post has existed since the Siamese Revolution of 1932 , when the country became a constitutional monarchy . Prior to the 2014 coup d'état , the prime minister was nominated by a vote in the Thai House of Representatives by a simple majority, and is then appointed and sworn in by the King of Thailand . The house's selection

1771-489: Is the duty of the president of the National Assembly of Thailand to submit the name considered most worthy for the king to formalize. The nominee and eventual prime minister is always the leader of the largest political party in the lower house or the leader of the majority coalition formed after an election. Under the junta, until 2019, the nominee for the office was selected by National Legislative Assembly , with

1848-647: Is the only child of Captain Amnuay Thavisin and Chodchoy Thavisin (née Jutrakul; 1928 - 2024). His family's lineage is connected to five notable Thai Chinese business dynasties: Yip in Tsoi, Chakkapak, Jutrakul, Lamsam , and Buranasiri. When Srettha was three years old in 1966, his father died and Chodchoy raised him as a single mother. Srettha completed his secondary education at Prasarnmit Demonstration School  [ th ] of Srinakharinwirot University in Bangkok. Pursuing higher education, he first obtained

1925-464: Is usually based on the fact that either the prime minister is the leader of the largest political party in the lower house or the leader of the largest coalition of parties. In accordance with the 2017 Constitution, the Prime Minister can hold the office for no longer than eight years, consecutively or not. The current prime minister is Paetongtarn Shinawatra , who took office on 16th August 2024 after

2002-514: The Golden Week and Chinese New Year holidays. Together with the Chinese ambassador , Han Zhiqiang , Srettha welcomed the first flight from Shanghai to Suvarnabhumi Airport since the implementation of this exemption. This visa exemption policy was planned to remain in effect until 29 February 2024 for Kazakhs. For Chinese tourists the visa exemption was extended, as both Thailand and China signed

2079-599: The Government House of Thailand ( ทำเนียบรัฐบาล ) in the Dusit area of Bangkok . The official residence of the prime minister is the Phitsanulok Mansion ( บ้านพิษณุโลก ), in the center of Bangkok. The mansion was built during the reign of King Vajiravudh . It became an official residence in 1979. The mansion is rumored to have many ghosts, therefore most prime ministers live in their private residences and only use

2156-877: The Governor of Bangkok , the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of High Education, Science, Research and Innovation, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, the Director-General of the Department of Provincial Administration, the Director-General of the Community Development Department, the Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, the Governor of Sports Authority of Thailand, and Director of

2233-511: The House of Representatives and the Senate , he secured 482 votes out of 728. Srettha was elected as Thailand's next prime minister by a joint sitting of parliament on 22 August 2023. His immediate responsibilities included the formation of a cabinet and the presentation of his policies for the forthcoming four years to parliament. The following day, King Vajiralongkorn officially appointed Srettha as

2310-457: The 2020 Expo, which paralleled his advocacy for a digital wallet scheme during his tenure as prime minister. Srettha's leadership at Sansiri contributed to the company's growth, including during the COVID-19 pandemic . In 2020, he acquired a land parcel at the corner of Sarasin road near Lumphini Park in Bangkok. The purchase costed ฿3.9 million per square wah (approximately 4m²), and is one of

2387-522: The 2023 Thai general election, he was amongst the prime ministerial candidates for the Pheu Thai Party . The other candidates from the party included Thaksin's youngest daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra , and Chaikasem Nitisiri , a former justice minister . In November, 2022, Srettha announced his intention to join the Pheu Thai Party. During the 2023 Thai general elections , he was named one of

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2464-575: The 30th Prime Minister of Thailand. On 5 September, Srettha was sworn in as prime minister and minister of finance by the King. The ceremony took place at the Amphorn Sathan Residential Hall in Dusit Palace , Bangkok. The new cabinet formed by Srettha was composed of 34 ministers representing six parties within the governing coalition. This included several ministers who had served under

2541-466: The Bank of Thailand. These criticisms focus on the potential long-term consequences for Thailand's economic future. Korn Chatikavanij , a former Finance Minister under Abhisit Vejjajiva 's administration during the Great Recession , has also expressed scepticism about the plan, particularly noting its lack of specific details. An ad-hoc committee has been established to flesh out the scheme. During

2618-481: The Bank's actions, he advocated for collaborative fiscal and monetary policies, emphasizing his lack of authority to interfere with the central bank's decisions. The Thai Canal , with an estimated cost of ฿1 trillion, forms part of the Southern Economic Corridor . It is designed to be completed in two phases, with the first phase expected to conclude around 2030 and the second by 2039. Upon completion,

2695-480: The Government Savings Bank. The announcement was met with widespread criticism, highlighting a departure from previously stated financial approaches. In January 2024, Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat indicated that the implementation of the scheme might be postponed beyond May. Despite ongoing scepticism about the program, Srettha maintained that the government had sufficient data to demonstrate

2772-498: The House of Representatives having been abolished. Under the constitution written by the junta, the prime minister is currently appointed by the full National Assembly , including the military-appointed Senate . The prime minister is the de facto chair of the Cabinet of Thailand . The appointment and removal of ministers can only be made with their advice. As the leader of the government,

2849-623: The Ministry of Public Health approved the proposal to reclassify cannabis, forwarding the proposal to the Narcotics Control Authority. However, on 23 July, BJT leader Anuntin Charnvirakul announced that the coalition partners had reached an agreement to regulate cannabis use through legislation and not through relisting it as a narcotic. BJT is the second largest party in Pheu Thai's coalition, and Srettha's proposals on cannabis created

2926-501: The Move Forward Party, failed to secure enough votes. Subsequently, Pita's second nomination for prime minister was blocked on 19 July on procedural grounds. After Move Forward failed to form a government, it gave way for Pheu Thai to attempt to form one. This coalition initially only excluded the Move Forward Party, but expanded on 7 August to include the Bhumjaithai Party . In a notable shift from their earlier election stance,

3003-564: The National Soft Power Strategy Committee meeting No. 1/2023 ended, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin signed an order appointing another committee it's called National Soft Power Development Committee , to act as a push and steering soft power policy in various areas to make progress and present it to the National Soft Power Strategy Committee, to consider. This committee has Paetongtarn Shinawatra as chairman, Dr. Suraphong Suebwonglee as vice- chairman, Pansak Winyarat as advisor and director along with another 46 members, totaling 49 people, such as

3080-730: The Office of the Civil Service Commission, the Office of the National Economic and Social Development Board , the Office of Public Sector Development Commission, and the Internal Security Operations Command . Legislatively all money bills introduced in the National Assembly must require the prime minister's approval. The prime minister can be removed by a vote of no confidence . This process can be evoked, firstly with

3157-406: The Prime Minister shall hold the office for no longer than eight years, consecutively or not. The term limit was the subject of legal challenge in 2022 after there were debates of how to count the term. The Constitutional Court ruled 6–3 that the term would be counted from the promulgation of the 2017 constitution, so that Prayut Chan-o-cha was allowed to continue his premiership despite having held

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3234-590: The Thai economy, particularly in Thailand's tourism sector by promoting Thai soft power. He also attempted to implement the digital wallet scheme and his international visits were aimed at attracting investors. Srettha was however labelled as a "puppet" under the control of powers behind the throne by critics. His appointment of Pichit Chuenban to his cabinet led to his dismissal by the courts in August 2024. Srettha Thavisin, born on 15 February 1962, in Bangkok , Thailand,

3311-671: The Village Fund Office, etc. The first meeting will be held on October 25, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. (Thai Standard Time) at the Witaed Samosorn meeting room, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and will meet regularly, once per month. On November 30, 2023, the National Softpower Development Committee Meeting No. 2/2023 resolved to approve in principle that the agencies responsible for 11 areas of Thai Soft power projects, activities, and industries proposed using

3388-604: The World Expo at the Chaeng Watthana government complex on 12 March. The expo showcased the government's proposed ฿2 trillion investments. Srettha, having inspected a nearby residential project, visited the expo and recommended that his Sansiri colleagues do the same, recognising its potential influence on the real estate sector. Despite public concerns about the project's financing and potential debt implications, Srettha expressed his support. In early 2019, he wrote favourably about

3465-636: The approach previously taken by former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. In Khon Kaen, he visited included the Ubol Ratana Dam , a site experiencing drought conditions. Srettha communicated to the media that agriculture was a key priority for his government, emphasising plans to enhance agricultural productivity in the region, with a specific goal of increasing farmers' yields by 50%. In Nong Khai , his discussions centred on shipping relations between Thailand and China . On 11 September, Srettha presented

3542-412: The cabinet's policy statement to Parliament. The statement outlined the government's strategies to address national issues, focusing on the economic sector. Despite high expectations from various economic, labour, and business groups, the statement faced critical analysis from opposition parties and media outlets. Sirikanya Tansakun , deputy leader and chief economist of the Move Forward Party , criticised

3619-482: The coalition further expanded to incorporate the Palang Pracharath Party and United Thai Nation Party. Srettha described this expansion, which contradicted earlier election promises, as a necessary strategic move. Subsequently, the Constitutional Court dismissed a petition by the ombudsman questioning the constitutionality of Parliament's rejection of Pita Limjaroenrat. A new round of parliamentary voting

3696-475: The company. On 17 February 2012, Srettha admitted to having met Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra and Deputy Prime Minister Kittiratt Na Ranong at the Four Seasons Hotel where they discussed Thailand's financial situation on 8 February alongside others. The meeting was controversial due to Akeyuth Anchanbutr claiming he was attacked by someone who worked for Thaksin. The meeting would go on to cause

3773-592: The constitution, lead the cabinet in announcing the government's policy statement in front of a joint session of the National Assembly, within fifteen days of being sworn in. The prime minister is also directly responsible for many departments. These include the National Intelligence Agency, the Bureau of the Budget, the Office of the National Security Council, the Office of the Council of State,

3850-461: The current 30-day visa exemptions for Schengen nations. To gain leverage in negotiations, Thailand is planning to collaborate with Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Malaysia to hold talks with the European Union (EU). On 14 February, Australian Governor-General David Hurley agreed to consider the possibility of a mutual visa exemption scheme between Thailand and Australia during his visit. In

3927-521: The draft THACCA Act or Thailand Creative Content Agency , to be considered by House of Representatives and Senate during August–September 2024, including the establishment of the Thai Film Council the same is true of the Korean Film Council of South Korea. In addition, two additional sub-committee members were appointed: Chanon Santinatornkul , a famous movie and television drama actor, in

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4004-1414: The enhanced safety measures for tourists, before contacting other ambassadors of the home countries of the victims who died in the shooting. Prime Minister of Thailand Vajiralongkorn (Rama X) Dipangkorn Rasmijoti Paetongtarn Shinawatra ( PTP ) Phumtham Wechayachai ( PTP ) Suriya Juangroongruangkit ( PTP ) Anutin Charnvirakul ( BTP ) Pirapan Salirathavibhaga ( UTN ) Pichai Chunhavajira ( PTP ) Prasert Jantararuangtong ( PTP ) Wan Muhamad Noor Matha ( PCC ) Mongkol Surasajja [REDACTED] Wan Muhamad Noor Matha ( PCC ) Pichet Chuamuangphan ( PTP ) Paradorn Prissanananthakul ( BTP ) Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut ( PP ) [REDACTED] Mongkol Surasajja Kriangkrai Srirak Bunsong Noisophon President: Chanakarn Theeravechpolkul President: Prasitsak Meelarp President: Nakarin Mektrairat Diplomatic missions of / in Thailand Passport Visa requirements Visa policy Borders : Cambodia Laos Malaysia Myanmar (Maritime : India Indonesia Vietnam) Foreign aid The prime minister of Thailand ( Thai : นายกรัฐมนตรี , RTGS :  Nayok Ratthamontri , pronounced [nāː.jók rát.tʰā.mōn.trīː] ; literally 'chief minister of state')

4081-631: The field of film, and Phonphan Techarungchaikul, the Chief Executive Officer of RS Music Company Limited in the field of music, by has order of the National Soft Power Development Board No. 1/2024 appointing Chanon officially on January 9, 2024 after a meeting of the National Soft Power Strategy Committee. Also on the same day There was also an order the National Soft Power Development Board No. 2/2024 appointing three additional sub-committee members: Chookiat Sakveerakul ,

4158-635: The gradual post-pandemic opening of its borders, flight arrivals for the high season had recovered to more than 80% of the levels seen in 2019. On 16 February at the iBusiness Forum in Bangkok, Srettha was informed by the Anschutz Entertainment Group that the reason Taylor Swift was not going to perform in Thailand was because of a deal with Singapore where she agreed not to schedule any Eras Tour concerts in ASEAN countries other than Singapore. In response, Srettha pledged to support making Thailand

4235-476: The idea of a separate head of government in Thailand is not new. Prior to 1932, Thailand was ruled by absolute monarchs , who acted as both the head of state and the government. However, during the middle and latter reigns of the Chakri Dynasty , several individuals were perceived to hold a post equivalent to a head of government . During the reign of King Mongkut , Somdet Chao Phraya Si Suriyawongse had

4312-400: The lead-up to the 2023 election, the Pheu Thai party campaigned for a digital wallet initiative. This plan, aimed at Thai citizens over 16 years of age, involved distributing a government-funded handout of ฿10,000 per individual. The stipulation was that the funds must be spent within a 4 km radius of the recipient's address and within six months. To encompass the 54.8 million eligible citizens,

4389-426: The local population. Srettha acknowledged that the government 's communication with international investors about the project's economic potential could have been more effective. He also The land bridge project elicited significant concerns and criticism from the local population. Srettha noted that the government had not succeeded in gaining the trust of the Thai people regarding this ambitious project, highlighting

4466-427: The members of the House of Representatives. Then after a simple majority vote in the house, a resolution will be passed and submitted to the king, who will then make a formal appointment by giving his royal assent to the resolution. This must take place within thirty days after the beginning of the first session of the House of Representatives after an election. If no candidate can be found within this time period, then it

4543-650: The most expensive land purchases in Thai history. Additionally, in the same year, Srettha acquired a 15% stake in XSpring Capital Public Company Limited. His business career was put on hold when he decided to engage in electoral politics in 2023. Due to regulations in Thai electoral laws prohibiting elected officials from owning or holding shares in companies, Srettha transferred all his shares to his daughter, Chanada Thavisin, on 8 March 2023. This transfer included his shares in Sansiri, representing 4.4% of

4620-529: The operations of government agencies and the private sector to be efficient, and it is consistent with the development of Thailand's potential to international countries. The National Soft Power Strategy Committee has the following duties and responsibilities: On January 9, 2024, there was a meeting of the National Soft Power Strategy Committee No. 1/2024 where the meeting approved 5 important matters: Later, on October 3, 2023, after

4697-539: The party's three prime ministerial candidates on 5 April 2023. Throughout the campaign, polls frequently showed him trailing behind Paetongtarn in the race for the preferred prime ministerial choice. Srettha launched his campaign in Bangkok's Khlong Toei district and delivered his inaugural campaign speech in Phichit province . Later, during a speech in Loei province in mid-April, he stated that Pheu Thai would not consider forming

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4774-410: The policy for its perceived lack of specificity and actionable goals. Sirikanya remarked on the absence of clear indicators and timeframes, comparing it to an earlier draft version that was leaked, and expressing concern over its potential effectiveness in guiding the country's economic direction. Srettha described the economy as being in a "crisis." He highlighted that the highest interest rates in

4851-464: The position since the 2014 coup. According to the 2007 constitution , The prime minister of the Kingdom of Thailand must be a member of the House of Representatives. Therefore, the qualifications for the office of prime minister are the same as the qualifications for membership in the house. Prior to the 2014 coup d'état , to be appointed, the nominee for the office must have the support of one-fifth of

4928-511: The previous administration of Prayut Chan-o-cha. Srettha stepped down as finance minister in April 2024 during a cabinet reshuffle. He was succeeded by his advisor and former energy executive, Pichai Chunhavajira . On 8 September, Srettha undertook visits to the northeastern provinces of Khon Kaen, Udon Thani, and Nong Khai. These provinces are known strongholds of support for the Pheu Thai Party. Accompanied by several ministers, his visit mirrored

5005-409: The prime minister is therefore ultimately responsible for the failings and performance of their ministers and the government as a whole. The prime minister cannot hold office for a consecutive period of more than eight years. As the most visible member of the government, the prime minister represents the country abroad and is the main spokesperson for the government at home. The prime minister must, under

5082-438: The program's effectiveness and value. Srettha had expressed his intention to expedite discussions with Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat. On 15 July 2024 Srettha announced that eligible businesses and individuals can register for the program beginning in August. On 21 September 2023, Srettha engaged in discussions with Elon Musk about potential Tesla investments in the Thai electric vehicle industry. This meeting

5159-571: The project aims to facilitate the handling of up to 20 million cargo containers annually. This infrastructure project received cabinet approval on 16 October. During his subsequent visits to the United States for the APEC summit and to Beijing for the 2023 Belt and Road Forum, Prime Minister Srettha sought investment from both American and Chinese entities to support the development. The land bridge project elicited significant concerns and criticism from

5236-446: The proposal would require an allocation of ฿560 billion from the government. Srettha, following his election, maintained support for this policy, while acknowledging its controversial nature. Pheu Thai has described the initiative as vital for jumpstarting the Thai economy, with a commitment from Srettha's government to consider public feedback on the policy. Concerns have been raised by various economic experts, including those from

5313-411: The removal of Srettha Thavisin . The office of the "President of the People's Committee " ( ประธานคณะกรรมการราษฎร ), later changed to "Prime Minister of Siam" ( นายกรัฐมนตรีสยาม ), was first created in the Temporary Constitution of 1932 . The office was modeled after the prime minister of the United Kingdom , as Siam became a parliamentary democracy in 1932 after a bloodless revolution . However,

5390-414: The survey showed that the efforts of the Prime Minister's cabinet had "somewhat satisfied" 55% of respondents, while 40% expressed dissatisfaction. On 10 November 2023, Srettha announced plans to borrow ฿500 billion to support the digital wallet scheme. This decision marked a significant shift from the government's initial strategy, which involved funding the program through the annual budget or loans from

5467-603: The underlying economic challenges, emphasising that structural issues were the main impediments to growth. Srettha advocated for a 25-basis point interest rate cut from the BoT's Monetary Policy Committee (MPC). However, the MPC, in a 5–2 decision, maintained the one-day repurchase rate at 2.50%, the highest in over a decade. The central bank attributed the decision to slower-than-expected economic growth, emphasising reliance on domestic demand. Structural impediments, particularly declining competitiveness, were identified as factors hampering growth. Despite Srettha's disagreement with

5544-469: The vote of only one-fifth of the members of the House of Representatives for a debate on the matter. Then after the debate a vote is taken and with a simple majority the prime minister can be removed. This process cannot be repeated within one parliamentary session. The prime minister is aided in his work by the Office of the Prime Minister ( สำนักนายกรัฐมนตรี ) a cabinet-level department headed usually by two ministers of state . These offices are housed in

5621-457: Was Phraya Manopakorn Nititada , a judge. The title of the office was changed from "Prime Minister of Siam " to "Prime Minister of Thailand " in 1945 and then permanently with the renaming of Siam to Thailand in 1949. For most of its existence, the office has been occupied by Army leaders; sixteen out of thirty. Military dominance began with the country's second prime minister, Phraya Phahon Phonphayuhasena , who ousted his civilian predecessor in

5698-602: Was a period of significant political unrest in Thailand. During this time, Srettha expressed opposition to the People's Democratic Reform Committee . Following the 2014 coup, he complied with a summons from the National Council for Peace and Order , reporting to the Royal Thai Army auditorium. Srettha maintained political connections with Thaksin Shinawatra and Yingluck Shinawatra , who have both served as prime ministers. In

5775-668: Was collaborating with Toyota to jointly develop the domestic electric vehicle industry. Since the beginning of the Srettha government, the electric vehicle market in Thailand has experienced significant growth. This progress led to the China Automotive Technology and Research Center (CATARC) setting up its regional automaking hub in Thailand. Additionally, in January 2024, Thailand identified two major lithium deposits in Phang Nga with

5852-435: Was part of Srettha's broader strategy to attract larger investments from companies like Tesla to bolster Thailand's electric vehicle sector . Srettha planned to continue these discussions in November. Additionally, following a visit to Malaysia on 11 October, Srettha indicated that Proton , along with its Chinese partner Geely , were considering the establishment of electric vehicle plants in Thailand. Additionally, Thailand

5929-414: Was scheduled for 22 August. During this session, Srettha delivered a speech to Parliament , outlining his vision and goals should he become prime minister, and also responded to questions from MPs and senators. His candidacy received support from Thaksin Shinawatra. Srettha was elected as the 30th Prime Minister of Thailand , following a nomination by the Pheu Thai Party. In a special joint sitting of

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