Head of the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) General Prayuth Chanocha has given an explanation of Thailand’s situation to the international community, saying that the NCPO has put efforts into creating a better understanding through every possible channel. The explanation came after the European Union (EU) had expressed its concern over the situation in Thailand and considered revising cooperation with Thailand as part of its call for general elections at the earliest opportunity. General Prayuth said that the NCPO understands the demands of the EU.
However, he said, holding an election under the present circumstances would only lead the country back to a cycle of conflict, continued rampant corruption among those holding political power, exposure to potential terrorism, and the use of weapons between conflicting groups. He believes that most Thai people understand these problems and do not want the country to face such a situation. They have, therefore, called on the NCPO to push ahead with solutions to these problems.
The NCPO stressed the need for reform as soon as possible to make Thailand become a fully functioning democracy before elections. It fully hopes that the EU will understand the situation, as most Thais do. The NCPO has met and talked to foreign business people from the EU, as well as the United States. Their trade and investment relations with Thailand have continued. Concerning the credibility of Thailand, General Prayuth said that the NCPO will try its best to address the issue as quickly as possible. On 23rd June 2014, the Security Chief of the NCPO invited the US Ambassador to Thailand to discuss and exchange views on the current situation. The Ambassador was informed of the roadmap of the NCPO and was satisfied that Thailand has clear directions. She also supports efforts to end human trafficking. On 26th June, the NCPO Deputy Chief for Economic Affairs met and discussed concerns with members of foreign chambers of commerce and various groups of entrepreneurs.
He also listened to their suggestions, together with solutions to prevent Thailand’s trade and investment relations with foreign countries from being affected. The entrepreneurs have shown their better understanding about the country’s situation. General Prayuth said that problems concerning labor, human trafficking, and abuse of democracy have accumulated for a long time and it will take some time to ease them. In this regard, rules and regulations will have to be revised to meet international standards and prevent the abuse of state authority. Various measures will also be taken to eliminate corruption. He emphasised efforts to formulate strategies, both domestic and international, in order to move the country forward, saying that all sectors need to adjust to the new situation.
 General Prayuth Chanocha has given an explanation of Thailand’s situation to the international community, saying that the NCPO){kind=link}