On 26 November 2013, Mr. Sihasak Phuangketkeow, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, gave a briefing on the current political situation in Thailand to representatives of the diplomatic corps and international organizations in Thailand.  He was joined by Major General Apichat Suriboonya, Director of the Foreign Affairs Division, Royal Thai Police. The Permanent Secretary summarized the main points of the Prime Minister’s statement on 25 November 2013 as follows:

- The Government fully respects the freedom of expression and assembly of all groups, but also has the overriding responsibility to maintain peace and order as well as to ensure that all government services continue to function unhindered.

- Unfortunately, on 25 November 2013, protesters surrounded and forcibly entered a number of key government offices which disrupted officials performing their duties and undermined national security.

- Such a situation made it necessary for the Government to invoke the Internal Security Act (ISA) B.E. 2551 (2008) to all districts of Bangkok, Nonthaburi and some districts of Samut Prakarn and Pathum Thani Province.  This will take effect from 25 November 2013 to 31 December 2013 and may be further extended if needed.

- Despite the implementation of the ISA, the Government will strictly avoid the use of force and all measures taken would be in compliance with international law enforcement standards.

- The Government is willing to listen to all sides.  The Prime Minister hopes that those with opposing views would make use of parliamentary procedures and adhere to the rule of law in order to resolve the situation.
 
Regarding the special measures that could be taken under the ISA, the Permanent Secretary explained that these include implementation of various actions necessary to preserve peace and order, such as prohibiting entry or exit at a locality, building or designated area, as well as prohibiting the carrying of weapons outside dwelling places.

According to the latest report from the Royal Thai Police, the main venues of the protesters are the Democracy Monument in the Ratchadamnoen area and the Ministry of Finance. The protesters also forcibly entered the Ministry of Foreign Affairs yesterday (25 November) evening and stayed overnight, but left today (26 November) at 11:00 hrs.

To date, three countries -- the United States of America, the United Kingdom, and Australia -- have issued statements regarding the political situation in Thailand.  All of them urged all sides to exercise restraint, respect the rule of law and refrain from unlawful acts.  They also hoped to see the situation resolved by peaceful means.  In this regard, the Permanent Secretary expressed his appreciation for the statement of support by the three countries and reaffirmed the importance of supporting the democratic process and urging all sides to resolve the situation peacefully.

While understanding the need for foreign governments to issue travel advisories, the Permanent Secretary urged that their issuance be based on facts and limited only to areas affected by the protests.  In any event, the Government is fully committed to ensuring the safety of all foreigners and diplomatic missions in Thailand.  The Ministry of Foreign Affairs hopes to set up a “call center” to answer inquiries from the diplomatic corps on the situation and will provide the contact details for this center at the earliest opportunity.