People's cooperation needed to build better country: Thai PM

Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha on Friday called for cooperation from all Thais in 2016 to help the country build up strength, secure stability and move toward democracy.

Thailand came across various problems and changes in terms of economy, politics, environment and society in 2015, Prayut said in his New Year address.

As a result, the government is determined to seek solutions by conducting the first phase of reform based on its roadmap, planning to hold a new general election, and offering special care to farmers and low-income earners, the premier said.

"I don't want things to go back to the same place," he said in the speech. It is believed that he was referring to recurring political tumult in the Thai history.

The government is making an effort to move toward a truly democratic society by drafting a new constitution and then holding a public referendum after its completion, Prayut said, stressing the need for cooperation and preparations from all sides to ensure the country's long-term stability and progress.

With the ASEAN Economic Community coming into being, he added, Thailand must on the one hand equip itself with strong human resources to raise its competitive advantages among the ASEAN Community and on the other hand work closely with other ASEAN member states.

Earlier on the New Year's Eve, the Thai king called on Thais to exercise mindfulness amid the uncertainty of life.

In his New Year's message, the king said life is exposed to changes, including happiness and sadness, fulfillment and disappointment, as a result of which one should stay mindful to overcome undesired situations. Enditem