Urgent economic talks called
Facing mounting political pressure, Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra will call an urgent meeting with economic decision-makers and top business leaders on Friday to discuss ways to bolster the economy. The move may also allow Thaksin to enlist their support amid an intensifying anti-government campaign.
Government Spokesman Surapong Suebwonglee said the gathering, to be held at the Foreign Ministry, and would bring together the Bank of Thailand governor, the finance minister, the National Economic and Social Development Board’s secretary-general and leading businessmen. “We have surveyed the opinions of Bangkok residents, and the survey shows that most people are more worried about economic problems, especially the cost of living, than the question of political stability or share transactions,” Surapong said. “As a result, the prime minister wants to call a meeting to lay down a framework for economic development that should directly benefit the lower and middle classes, especially salary earners,” he added. The meeting will be held just days ahead of a scheduled rally of anti-Thaksin demonstrators at Sanam Luang on Sunday. Commerce Minister Somkid Jatusripitak said Thaksin wanted to hear ideas from business leaders about how to help low-income earners and tackle economic problems.
Suvit Maesincee, vice minister of Commerce, said that Thaksin had also instructed key economic industries to arrange a meeting on February 24 with representatives of the top 100 companies listed on the Stock Exchange. Petchanet Pratruangkrai Piyanart Srivalo The Nation
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