On 14 September, 2008, the Royal Thai Government lifted
the State of Emergency previously declared in Bangkok.

     On Sunday 14 September 2008, Mr. Somchai Wongsawat, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, in his capacity as Acting Prime Minister, announced the immediate lifting of the state of emergency, which had been declared in the Bangkok Metropolitan Area on 2 September 2008.

     The Royal Thai Government’s decision to lift the state of emergency came after careful consultations with the security authorities concerned, including General Anupong Paochinda, Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army, and Police General Patcharawat Wongsuwan, Commissioner-General the Royal Thai Police, during which it was determined that the situation in Bangkok had returned to normal, and the potential risk to public safety from possible confrontations between opposing political groups had eased.

     The political situation in general and the demonstrations by political groups in particular should not affect the daily life of foreigners living in or visiting Thailand.  All public services, including communications and utilities, continue to function normally.  All airports and train services have resumed full operations.  Roadways are open to commuters, with only certain roads in Bangkok around the Government House compound still closed. Life in the capital and the rest of the country goes on as usual.  The Kingdom’s tourist attractions and shopping districts are unaffected, safe and continue to welcome visitors from around the globe.  Even now, hundreds of thousands of foreign visitors continue to travel to Thailand every week – a reflection of their confidence in the country.

     Looking ahead, following the 9 September 2008 ruling by the Constitutional Court which resulted in the termination of the ministership of Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej, a new administration is expected to be formed soon.  The transition is a normal process in accordance with parliamentary procedures as provided for in the Constitution and on the basis of the rule of law.  All sides concerned continue to reiterate the intention to exercise utmost restraint and work towards resolving the current political differences through peaceful means.

15 September 2008   

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