Pattani: Gen. Nattapol Nakphanit, Deputy Minister of Defense and Acting Minister of Defense, recently engaged with Islamic religious leaders and the Thai Buddhist community in Pattani Province. During his visit, he reiterated the government’s commitment to resolving the southern border issues and emphasized the importance of avoiding violence, with a strategic plan to hand over the area by 2027, aiming for a return to normalcy and the absence of armed soldiers at checkpoints.

According to Thai News Agency, Gen. Nattapol visited ISOC Region 4 and met with local residents at Wat Tanee Narasomsorn in Mueang District, Pattani Province. He highlighted the government’s endeavors to establish peace in the southern border provinces. As the Acting Minister of Defense, appointed by the Prime Minister to advise on ISOC operations, he expressed his dedication to this crucial national mission, which also includes addressing the Thai-Cambodian issue.

The general assured the residents of the southern border provinces that security forces are actively managing the situation, with the goal of transferring a secure area to the Ministry of Interior by 2027. He envisions a future where soldiers are no longer required to maintain checkpoints, signifying a return to normal conditions.

In his discussions with Mr. Ahamid Kamae Waemuso, Vice President of the Administration and Management of Mosques, and the Islamic Committee of Pattani Province, Gen. Nattapol conveyed the government’s concerns and stressed the need for peaceful methods to ensure stability and normalcy in the region. He sought support and encouragement from the community, underscoring the government’s policy of non-violence and the use of all available mechanisms to foster peace.

The visit underscored the government’s ongoing efforts to address and resolve the challenges in the southern border provinces, with a focus on peaceful resolutions and community engagement.