Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont yesterday reiterated his stand that Thaksin Shinawatra must cease all political activity if he wished to return to Thailand.

"I still see Thaksin as active in making moves with political and diplomatic implications," Surayud said, referring to Thaksin's visit to Singapore last Friday.

If Thaksin really wants to come out of exile, the government is ready to talk about his eventual return, he said.

"Please be clear that Thaksin has never been banned from entering the country. However, he should discuss his return with the authorities to pave the way," he said.

He expected Thaksin to agree to political retirement before discussing what he will be permitted to do upon returning.

"The matter of ending exile is solely a decision Thaksin has to make for himself," he said, suggesting the ousted prime minister should take the initiative in negotiating terms with the government.

Thaksin is said to have sought an amnesty and Surayud said the government was willing to review all proposals for reconciliation. He encouraged public debate about this.

While in Singapore, Thaksin gave an interview with CNN and spoke of an amnesty for alleged wrongdoing committed by his government.

Thaksin is currently on a private visit to Japan and Surayud foresaw no repeat of the diplomatic spat triggered by the deposed premier's Singapore trip.