Thailand will hold talks with Myanmar leader Min Aung Hlaing next month on cross-border environmental and security issues, including toxic contamination in the Kok River, agricultural burning and narcotics production, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said on Wednesday.
Speaking in Chon Buri after returning from an official visit to China, Mr Anutin said environmental protection featured prominently in his discussions with Chinese leaders, including green economic development, clean energy and environmentally friendly manufacturing aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
He said the government remained committed to tackling environmental issues, including contamination in the Kok River, which authorities have been monitoring closely.
Mr Anutin said Myanmar’s president, Min Aung Hlaing, is scheduled to make an official visit to Thailand on Aug 3-4. During the visit, Thailand will raise concerns over toxic pollutants in the Kok River and seek Myanmar’s cooperation in addressing the problem.
The Kok River originates in Myanmar before flowing into Thailand, making cooperation between the two countries essential. He said measures to combat transboundary haze caused by agricultural burning, drug production and trafficking are also expected to be discussed.