Thaksin's daughter, Paetongtarn, refutes claims of a meeting in the UK with Yingluck; asserting that her father, Thaksin, is currently in Thailand.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra addressed criticisms over her recent trips to the United Kingdom and Monaco, dismissing accusations that these visits were private holidays funded by public funds. Speaking at Wing 6 of the Royal Thai Air Force Base in Don Mueang, Bangkok, she clarified a photo posted online showing her with former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, stating it was an old picture, not taken during this trip.
During the news conference, Paetongtarn also skirted over rumors regarding her hairstyle in the picture and her alleged meeting with Yingluck. She shrugged off the speculation with humor, saying, "Parting my hair the same way every time proves nothing. Luckily, I haven't had nose surgery-then people would really jump to conclusions." She emphasized that there was no meeting between the two during the trip but acknowledged they have remained in contact, especially after the ruling by the Supreme Administrative Court ordering Yingluck to pay damages over the rice-pledging scheme.
Regarding her late father, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who is due for a court hearing at the Supreme Court's Criminal Division for Holders of Political Positions concerning his medical stay at the Police General Hospital, Paetongtarn expressed optimism that there would be no obstacles for him to attend the hearing. Dispelling rumors, she confirmed that Thaksin was still in Thailand and had not left the country.
Paetongtarn denied allegations that her UK visit was aimed at exploring an escape route for Thaksin, reiterating that she went to check out schools for her children. Concerning the purpose of her trip, she emphasized that the visit was far from a vacation, stating, "My visit was a government-backed mission focused on trade expansion and soft power promotion, not a private holiday."
During her stay in London, she had discussions with the Ministry of Commerce regarding trade issues and the potential for a Free Trade Agreement. She also launched the new Thai SELECT certification logo aimed at promoting authentic Thai cuisine and met with key stakeholders, such as Team Thailand, major UK importers of Thai food, and the Thai Business Association in the UK to boost the export value of Thai products. Meanwhile, in Monaco, she held talks about the possibility of hosting a Formula One race in Thailand and had an audience with Prince Albert II of Monaco.
In essence, the Prime Minister's trip to the United Kingdom was a government-backed mission focused on trade expansion and promoting Thai soft power to expand markets for Thai products and services. Despite mounting public drama, Paetongtarn insisted her duties were not affected and emphasized her focus was on working hard for the nation.
- Amidst criticism, Paetongtarn Shinawatra clarified that her recent trip to the stock market and general-news hub, London, was a government-backed mission aimed at boosting trade and promoting Thai soft power.
- In the volatile landscape of the economy and politics, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra held discussions with the UK Ministry of Commerce regarding trade issues and the potential for a Free Trade Agreement.
- Paetongtarn Shinawatra's foray into the international arena, including her visit to the stock market and political centers like London and Monaco, reflects an active engagement with global economic and political dynamics.
