Gen Yutthasak eyes negotiating with Myanmar for release of Thai villagers

BANGKOK, 12 July 2012 – Deputy Prime Minister General Yutthasak Sasiprapa is planning to hold talks with Myanmar officials this evening on the fate of the Thai nationals being detained in Myanmar’s Kawthaung province for trespassing.



During his visit to Myanmar for the Sea Games committee meeting on July 12-13, Gen Yutthasak said that he would seek a chance to hold a meeting with a Myanmar government official to discuss the detainment of Thai villagers and their possible release. The Deputy PM said he believed this approach will help maintain good relations between the two countries.



Gen Yutthasak affirmed that the majority of the villagers in Myanmar’s custody will be released before the end of this week. However, villagers suspected of weapons trading and drug trafficking by Myanmar authorities will continue to be detained for further investigation.



The deputy premier added that Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra has also assigned him to chair a welcoming committee for Myanmar President Thein Sein, who will arrive in Thailand on July 22. He assured that the issue surrounding the Thai detainees will be resolved before the president’s visit.

(NNT : Orapa Chueyprasit)

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