BANGKOK: Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra had a tense exchange with a female reporter on Wednesday (June 4) concerning the Thailand–Cambodia border dispute.
At Government House in Bangkok, the reporter cited a statement from the 2nd Army Region commander, saying, “Today, there’s already been a 200-metre incursion.”
Paetongtarn firmly responded, “Yes,” before gesturing toward Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai and saying, “This is who’s going to have a look.”
The Prime Minister then asked whether the reporter would be joining the visit, but the journalist replied that they weren’t being taken along. Paetongtarn smiled and asked if she was all right.
When the reporter clarified that she wasn’t upset, the Prime Minister placed a hand on her chest and said playfully, “This reporter is really intense.”
Later, Paetongtarn approached the press again, asking, “Is something wrong? Was she upset about something today?” But the reporter she referred to had already left the room for another engagement.
A colleague replied on her behalf, saying it was just her usual manner.
"I was just confused," said Paetongtarn. “She clenched her teeth and went ‘heh heh heh’ at me.”
Other reporters reassured the Prime Minister that no one was angry and that she still had their support. Paetongtarn concluded with a smile, “There’s nothing wrong — but maybe ask her if she’s upset about something.” - The Nation/ANN
