SAFETY OF LEADERS AT THAI SUMMIT ASSURED

Thousands of protesters march from Government House to the Si Sao Thewes home of Gen Prem Tinsulanonda to press him to resign as president of the Privy Council

Foreign Minister Kasit Piromya has assured the safety of all 16 delegation heads at the East Asian summit beginning in Pattaya tomorrow.
Mr Kasit yesterday confirmed security arrangements after Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva was besieged on Tuesday by red-shirt protesters when he left the Royal Cliff Beach Hotel, where the summit will be held.
Deputy Prime Minister Suthep Thaugsuban said the incident had not been anticipated. Security for the leaders participating in the summit will adhere to international standards.
Mr Kasit said officials were confident they could meet all security challenges. Strict surveillance measures will be in place at airports and hotels.
"Protests are a basic right, but we will not accept violence which could happen," he said.
So far, no government of the participating countries had inquired about the safety of the summit. The Foreign Ministry had given a briefing about the issue a few days ago, he said.
"No foreign embassy has asked about the red-shirt protesters because we have given them the confidence that we are in control of the situation today," he said.
Mr Kasit said he cancelled a meeting with foreign envoys in Bangkok yesterday because of the demonstrations.
He will join the East Asian summit as well as other meetings with the foreign envoys on April 17 as planned.
National police chief Patcharawat Wongsuwon said police have designated an area for protesters who turn up at the summit 2km from the venue.
Courtesy: Bangkok Post