Thai PM meets UNHCR chief

BANGKOK, July 8 (TNA) – United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Filippo Grandi on Friday paid a courtesy call on Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha when the two sides emphasized cooperation in addressing the refugee problem. During Grandi’s visit to the Government House in the capital Bangkok, Prime Minister Prayut expressed his gratitude to the UNHCR for long-lasting cooperation and said that Thailand was ready to work with the UN Refugee Agency on the voluntary repatriation of refugees, according to deputy government spokesperson Werachon Sukondhapatipak. He said the Gen Prayut also appreciated the UNHCR’s appointment of actress Praya Lundberg as the first Goodwill Ambassador in Thailand and Southeast Asia. Lt Gen Werachon added that the two sides agreed all parties should be involved in tackling the refugee problem, rather than leaving a single country to face it alone. Lt Gen Werachon quoted Gen Prayut as saying that Thailand gave assurance to refugees’ access to education, public health, and shelters when they were living in the country. He still hoped that the UNHCR will continue providing supports for the government. In response, Mr Grandi thanked and applauded the Thai government for treatment of child refugees in particular. (TNA)