Published: 16:09, September 7, 2024
Thailand's PM Paetongtarn vows to stimulate economy 'right away'
By Agencies
Thailand's new Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra addresses the media after a special cabinet meeting at Government House in Bangkok on Sept 7, 2024. (PHOTO / AFP)

BANGKOK - Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra said on Saturday her new government will seek to stimulate the economy "right away" and will continue with the policies of former premier Srettha Thavisin.

She held a special cabinet meeting earlier in the day to prepare policies that will be delivered at a 2-day meeting of parliament on Thursday and Friday that will mark the formal beginning of her administration.

Paetongtarn was elected prime minister by the country's House of Representatives last month following the shock removal of Srettha by a court for ethical violations.

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She said her government will mainly continue the policies of her predecessor with some adjustments. This includes tackling issues such as debt restructuring, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises as well as boosting the agricultural and tourism sectors.

This aerial photo taken on May 17, 2024 shows a general view of the Bhumibol bridge (left) over the Chao Phraya river and an under-construction high-rise building (right) in the backdrop of Bangkok's skyline. (PHOTO / AFP)

"Our work will continue from Srettha's government, particularly in stimulating the economy," Paetongtarn said at her first press conference since her cabinet was sworn in by King Maha Vajiralongkorn a day earlier.

She did not directly address a question about potential adjustments to the government's flagship digital wallet scheme or when it might be implemented. The scheme calls for 50 million Thais to each receive 10,000 baht ($295) via a smartphone application.

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Paetongtarn said this week that part of the government's 450 billion baht ($13.4 billion) handout plan would be distributed in cash, signaling that the wallet scheme could be adjusted but did not provide details.