July 19, 2024

In response to a United Nations Human Rights report from June 2024, which implicated Thai banks in facilitating arms purchases for the Myanmar military junta, Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa has announced a thorough investigation. This was reported by The Nation, a prominent Thai news outlet.

On July 11, during a session in the Thai Parliament, representatives from major Thai banks were summoned by the Department of National Security, Border Affairs, National Strategy, and Reform. They were questioned about their financial transactions potentially linked to the Myanmar junta.

The UN report revealed that, in the previous year, the junta’s arms purchases were funded through transactions involving accounts in over 250 companies, including some based in Thailand. The UN Special Rapporteur on Myanmar, Tom Andrews, highlighted that such transactions enabled the junta’s escalated violence and war crimes.

Minister Maris emphasized Thailand’s commitment to human rights and compliance with international agreements, stating, “There are no policies in Thailand that violate UN agreements or human rights.” He assured that the Thai Foreign Ministry would collaborate with investigative bodies to thoroughly examine the claims made in the UN report.

“We will conduct a strict and transparent investigation,” Maris stated. “The results will not be kept confidential.”

The Thai government has initiated an extensive review of financial transfers by Thai companies and banks to ensure compliance with international regulations. By July 24, the five major banks named in the UN report are expected to submit detailed reports on their financial activities.

The banks implicated in the report include Krung Thai Bank, Bangkok Bank, Kasikorn Bank, SCBX Bank, and TMB Thanachart Bank.

Photo Credit: The Nation