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Today (28 March) at 10.30 hrs, Mr. Satit Wonghnongtaey, Minister attached to the Prime Minister’s Office, gave a TV interview with the National Broadcasting Services of Thailand (NBT Channel), saying that the government is open to negotiations.
Mr. Satit said that there are now about 3,000 to 4,000 protesters in front of the 11th Infantry Regiment. The government is in the process of coordinating the talks with the protestors and will inform the public later of the result. Mr. Satit stressed that in doing all this, the Government has attached priority to the interest of the country.
To create an environment suitable for talks, the protestors will have to withdraw from the 11th Infantry Regiment first, so as to avoid the tension and to create a peaceful environment conducive to talks, Minister Satit said.
As for the announcement of Martial law within the compound of the 11th Infantry Regiment, it would be carried out if and only when the protestors force their way into such military base. Martial law in this situation is necessary as the 11th Infantry Regiment also houses weapons for national defence and security. And if the demonstrators accept to withdraw from the 11th Infantry Regiment, it will pave the way for a peaceful negotiation.
Later at 10.40 hrs, Mr. Satit also gave a press conference at the 11th Infantry Regiment, saying that the Prime Minister is willing to talk with the protestors. Now, Mr. Korbsak Sabhavasu, Secretary-General to the Prime Minister, has been assigned to coordinate with the protestors as to when and where to hold the talks. The Prime Minister wants to see the talks proceed under a peaceful environment. Like everyone else, the Government wants to see the situation resolved as soon as possible. Once the time and venue for the talks are confirmed, they will be announced accordingly.
Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs : (Political Situation in Thailand)
