Disputes over alleged discussions regarding a military base being negotiated by Phumtham for Trump's tax agreement
In a recent statement, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Phumtham Wechayachai, along with the Royal Thai Navy, has clarified that there is no approval or plan for a permanent US naval base at Phang Nga. This comes amidst rumours and speculations about a potential deal between the two countries.
Phumtham Wechayachai, in addressing the recent news, expressed deep concern over the rumours of a US proposal. He emphasized that the US and allied navies already have access to the Tap Lamu base under existing arrangements, but this access is temporary and logistical only, not constituting a permanent military foothold.
The Royal Thai Navy echoed this, calling the idea of a permanent US base a "non-starter" and rejecting claims that the base was offered to the US as part of secret deal negotiations tied to trade talks. The Ministry of Defence also confirmed that no formal requests or proposals had been made by the US for the base.
Thailand maintains a policy of balance in national security matters, consistently rejecting any US base establishment despite longstanding interest. This policy, which has been a consistent approach under all administrations in Thailand, was reiterated by Phumtham Wechayachai. He further clarified that he had never been involved in discussions with the United States about the US proposal.
Gen Nattapol Nakpanit, Deputy Minister of Defence, also addressed the recent rumours regarding the US proposal to use a naval base in Phang Nga. He confirmed that the Ministry of Defence had not been contacted on the matter.
Reports linking the base concession to US tariff negotiations were dismissed as baseless and speculative by Thai officials. The Thap Lamu base, owned by the Royal Thai Navy, remains under the control of the Thai government, with no plans for a permanent US naval base in sight.
Elsewhere, the BMA is boosting executive skills with big data for smarter Bangkok. The BOI has unveiled 5 major measures to tackle Trump tariffs and the trade war. Heavy rain and thunderstorms are expected across the country, while the Police are intensifying efforts and beginning a review of records of monks nationwide. The BMA commends a company for the rapid repair of the rusty 'Giant Swing' sculpture on Pathumwan Skywalk.
- Thailand's international policy regarding business and national security matters is to maintain a balance, consistently rejecting proposals for a permanent US naval base, as reiterated by Phumtham Wechayachai.
- Rumours of a US proposal to establish a permanent naval base at Phang Nga have been dismissed by Thai officials, with the Ministry of Defence confirming that no formal requests or proposals have been made by the US.
- In the broader context of policy-and-legislation and general-news, the US tariff negotiations and the trade war have not been linked to discussions about a potential US naval base in Thailand.
