New government to form in January : PM

He was speaking in a seminar entitled "Thailand Focus 2007 - Platforms for Growth" held by the Stock Exchange of Thailand.

The premier told audience of more than 200 local and foreign fund managers that the government and the Council for National Security have scheduled free and fair general elections to be held no later than the year's end and a new government should be formed in January.

Surayud said he expects the Thai economy to grow at 4-4.5 per cent as exports will remain the key driving force, although a slowdown is foreseen due to prevailing global economic risks.

The premier told investors that the government has laid down a platform for policy reform to provide strong foundations during this changeover stage and to help propel Thailand's economic and social development in the longer term.

"The platform contains four major pillars. First, economic management in the transition period, second, building the foundation for economic and social restructuring, third, strenthening national unity and transparency and equity for society, and most importantly, fourth, successful political reform by means of the new constitution that will shape the future democratic governments of the country," he said. - The Nation

Jiwamol Kanoksilp

Oranan Paweewun