Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs quells the drama of the Prime Minister using an iPad for bilateral discussions, saying that it is normal for recording issues, stating that the Prime Minister can discuss in English and covers all issues. Revealing that the Prime Minister expressed his concern about the situation in the Middle East, asking the countries involved to find a peaceful solution.
Mr. Nikorndej Plangool, Director-General of the Department of Information and Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, clarified the case where some people raised questions about the bilateral discussion between Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra, Prime Minister, and the President of Iran during the 3rd ACD Summit 2024 in Doha, Qatar, stating that during the meeting, the Prime Minister held bilateral discussions with leaders of several countries, including Iran, Qatar, Kuwait, and Tajikistan. The bilateral discussions with Iran were due to the fact that Thailand is the Chair of the ACD this year, and Thail
and will take over from Iran as the Chair of the ACD in 2025. It is also an opportunity for Thailand to discuss other issues with Iran, and it is Iran’s right to raise other bilateral issues for discussion with Thailand, including the situation in the Middle East. In this regard, the Prime Minister took this opportunity to express his concerns, asking Iran and all relevant countries to exercise patience, restraint, and seek a peaceful solution in accordance with international legal practices. He also took this opportunity to thank Iran for supporting the negotiations to help the Thai hostages in Gaza who have arrived in Thailand.
As for the use or non-use of an interpreter, the Foreign Ministry spokesman explained that normally, during discussions between leaders, both sides will agree in advance on both the language used for the discussion and the use of an interpreter. Given the limited time for discussions and the Prime Minister being able to communicate in English, it was agreed that only Iranian English
interpreters would be used.
The Foreign Ministry spokesperson also clarified the case of the Prime Minister using an iPad during bilateral discussions, as there was a drama online. He said that during bilateral discussions between the Prime Minister or ministers, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs normally prepares and records issues so that all leaders or representatives can use them in their discussions in full. Some leaders are more comfortable using paper documents, but Ms. Paethongtarn is more comfortable using an iPad. She herself has also seen foreign representatives using smartphones to record issues and review them, so it is considered normal. Ms. Paethongtarn is a new-age leader. She confirmed that during the Prime Minister’s bilateral discussions, all issues were covered.
Source: Thai News Agency