Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul Asserts Thai Sovereignty Over Koh Kood During Local Visit.

Koh Kood: The Minister of Interior, Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, visited Koh Kood to address the concerns of the local community and reinforce Thai sovereignty over the island. During his visit, Mr. Anutin emphasized the government's commitment to protecting Thailand's territory, assuring residents and tourists alike that no part of Koh Kood would ever be ceded. According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Anutin was accompanied by Ms. Sabida Thaiset, Deputy Minister of Interior, Mr. Arsit Sampantharat, Permanent Secretary of Interior, and Ms. Traisulee Traisaranakul, Secretary to the Minister of Interior. They were welcomed by the Governor of Trat Province, Koh Kood District Chief, and local administrative officials. The delegation met with residents of the Ban Klong Mad community, a region known for its coastal fishing and developing tourism industry. Mr. Anutin took the opportunity to meet with Grandpa Suang Rampai, a 92-year-old resident affectionately known as Kong on Koh Kood. During their interaction, Mr. Anutin a ssured the community that the visit was not politically motivated but was focused on national interest and helping the people. He expressed gratitude towards Kong Suang for asserting Koh Kood's place within Thailand and addressed concerns regarding land rights for farming. The Deputy Governor clarified that Koh Kood is a royal property managed by the Treasury Department, with over 100 households successfully verifying their residency and receiving title deeds. Issues related to electricity and water supply were also discussed, with Mr. Anutin acknowledging existing challenges and calling for improvements. In a statement to the press, Mr. Anutin dismissed any territorial disputes, citing historical treaties such as the Thai-French agreement to affirm Thailand's claim to Koh Kood. He urged local officials to foster confidence among residents, highlighting that the government would never relinquish any part of the island. The visit concluded on a patriotic note, with Thai national flags prominently displayed across the community and Mr. Anutin symbolically raising two flags over his head, signaling unwavering national pride and sovereignty.