Bangkok--26 May--Ministry of Tourism and Sports
Pursuant to the Declaration of a Severe Emergency Situation in the areas of Bangkok and some provinces in Thailand implemented by the Centre for the Resolution of the Emergency Situation (CRES) under the Emergency Decree on Public Administration in Emergency Situation of B.E. 2548 (2005), the Ministry of Tourism and Sports wishes to announce that political unrest in Thailand has been completely under control and order in the Capital of Bangkok and the provinces of Thailand has been restored.
Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva has strongly reaffirmed to continue on the National Reconciliation Roadmap to resolve the political situation nationwide. Peace and normalcy in Thai society will be sustainably restored from present onwards in order to assure the international tourists that Thailand still remains a pleasant destination in the region. Major tourism destinations in provinces across the country are still pristine, peaceful and safe. Various measures have been implemented to bring normalcy back to the country and to assure foreign visitors that Thailand still remains quality and value for money destination.
The Ministry of Tourism and Sports has put the importance of the safety and security for international tourist at the first place. Free travel insurance for foreign tourists and a waiver of tourist visa fees have been extended to March 31, 2011. The Royal Thai Government has issued insurance measures to protect foreigners visiting Thailand who are damaged or unable to travel out of Thailand in case of a riot. This programme will help increase confidence of foreigners in safety and security in traveling to Thailand.
The Royal Thai Government has been launched the urgent recovery plan and measures in order to enable tourism industry, especially small and medium entrepreneurs to return their business as soon as possible. Bangkok Metropolitan together with related government agencies and local resident have made a concerted effort to return normalcy and business environment to Bangkok.
Major tourist destinations, facilities and services are still regularly accessed by both domestic and foreign tourists. Public utility and mass transportation services are fully operated. Suvarnabhumi Airport and other international airports remain in operation without any disruption. The Ministry of Tourism and Sports is working closely with other Ministries and agencies to ensure the safety and convenience of all visitors traveling in Thailand.
With integrated efforts of government agencies and full engagement of private sectors and other related stakeholders, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports affirms that public safety and security, including peace and normalcy, is now flourishing in Thailand.