Thailand observes Int's Women’s Day

BANGKOK, March 7 (TNA) - Thailand observes International Women’s Day, which falls on every March 8, as the Thai government organized activities to mark the annual UN-designated day and Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra promised to support women’s roles in national development. On behalf of Premier Yingluck, who is paying a five-day official visit to Japan until March 10, Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Yongyuth Wichaidit presented honorary plaques to individuals and organizations with outstanding achievements in the fields of women and families on the occasion of the International Women’s Day. A recording of the prime minister’s speech was played back before the award presentation, in which Yingluck urged the Thai society to be aware of women’s roles in national development and referred to female leaders in all kinds of businesses. Yingluck acknowledged that women have suffered from inequality and her government will be giving those fair opportunities to assist in national development, protecting women’s rights, improving laws on women’s protection and increasing their access to financial sources, education and health services. According to the Puea Thai premier, her government has also set up a fund to promote women’s roles. Thai Social Development and Human Security Minister Santi Promphat said, meanwhile, that the United Nations set the International Women’s Day on March 8 in 1910 and Thailand has participated in activities relevant to the international day since 1989. Santi told journalists that the theme of the International Women’s Day 2012 is “Connecting Girls, Inspiring Futures” based on the belief in women’s constructive potential, and that there are 30 awards for outstanding women, individuals and organizations in 19 categories and honorary certificates for 116 local administrative organizations with outstanding achievements in women’s and families’ affairs in Thailand this year. (TNA)