Thailand PM vows diplomatic resolution of Cambodia border conflict amid economic challenges

Thailand's new Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has pledged to address the country's economic challenges, resolve the ongoing border dispute with Cambodia through diplomacy, and push for a new, more democratic constitution. He promised to hold elections within four months as part of a deal with the People’s Party, which supports his government but may act as opposition in the legislature. Anutin intends to support a referendum for an elected constituent assembly to draft a new charter, aiming to uphold the constitutional monarchy while tackling corruption and crime. Regarding the border conflict, he announced plans for a referendum on whether to revoke the existing memorandum of understanding on border issues with Cambodia, which has been under scrutiny following a deadly five-day conflict in July that displaced hundreds of thousands. Experts caution that revoking these agreements could create a vacuum unless a replacement is agreed upon with Cambodia. The government also aims to alleviate rising living costs and economic fallout from trade wars and U.S. tariff policies.