Bangkok: Suchart Chomklin has expressed confidence that the elephants "Plai Pratu Pha" and "Srinarong" will soon be repatriated to Thailand following negotiations led by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with Sri Lanka. He also urged the public to refrain from criticizing the care provided to these elephants.
According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, Suchart Chomklin, addressed the media regarding the efforts to bring back Plai Pratu Pha and Plai Srinarong from Sri Lanka to Thailand. He mentioned that the Director-General of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation had met with the Director-General of the Department of South Asian, Middle Eastern and African Affairs to discuss various agreements and coordination strategies with Sri Lanka. Suchart indicated that a meeting with Sri Lankan government leaders is likely to occur soon.
Mr. Suchart continued, advising Thai citizens concerned about the elephants to avoid critical language concerning their care. He emphasized the importance of speaking with sympathy and understanding, stating, "We should speak in a way that asks for sympathy and that we'll return to care for them ourselves. This is easier than bluffing or discrediting them, as it's a way of life in each country."
Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, Anutin Charnvirakul, has expressed full support for Suchart and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in this matter. Suchart thanked the Prime Minister and highlighted the public's demand for the elephants' return. He noted that a recent meeting with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had resulted in significant progress and stressed the importance of conducting negotiations with gentleness and mutual respect.
Suchart reassured the public, stating, "I'll be honest, my government and I are doing our utmost to address this matter. Please be assured that I will be leaving soon, as I'm awaiting coordination with Sri Lankan government leaders. It's going well. We'll definitely talk and meet, but the approach must be compassionate." He underscored the need for thoughtful negotiation tactics and assured the public of his commitment to achieving success in bringing the elephants back to Thailand.