Thai to Assist in Chinese River Boat Policing

 

The cabinet has approved a plan for Thai security officers to take part in protecting Chinese cargo boats on the Mekong River from southern China to the northern province of Chiang Rai.

Government spokesperson Thitima Chaisaeng said the approval yesterday stemmed from National Security Council secretary-general Wichean Potephosree’s proposal for Thai authorities to take part in a protection programme with officials from China, Laos and Burma from the Guan Lei Port of China to the Chiang Saen port of Chiang Rai.

Thai authorities will board foreign patrol boats from Guan Lei to the Golden Triangle and from the Golden Triangle to the Chiang Saen port. But Thailand will not allow patrol boats from China, Burma or Laos to enter Thai waters to protect Thai sovereignty.

Thai authorities will have offices to coordinate joint patrols at a regional police command and in Chiang Saen.

Anna Wong