Anutin is preparing to demand that Trump honor the promise of special tax consideration as per the joint statement. He has seen the name 'Woraphak' on the sanctions list but denies any connection to this government, stating it is the individual's responsibility to find a way to clear their name and handle the matter.
At 10:30 a.m. at the Ministry of Interior, Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, spoke about the U.S. tax negotiations. He said Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Mrs. Supachai Suthamphan reported that the discussions are nearly complete, with only minor points remaining. They are trying to arrange for the leaders to have a final discussion. On 18 Sept, he will meet Mrs. Supachai for detailed talks. The negotiation results are moving in a positive direction. When asked if he would call the U.S. President, Anutin said he just returned from abroad but has been briefed on the talks since last week, as both trade representatives are ready to have final conversations. If given the chance, he will ask about Thailand’s compliance with the joint Thailand-Cambodia statement on mine clearance and anti-scammer efforts, and whether special tax rates could be granted to Thailand as a result.
Denies government involvement
When asked about the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee sending a letter to the U.S. government requesting investigation and consideration of sanctions against 28 individuals linked to scammer networks and human trafficking in Southeast Asia, including Mr. Woraphak Thanyawong, former Deputy Finance Minister during Anutin’s government, he acknowledged seeing the name. He said those accused must hire lawyers and find ways to clear themselves, and that this does not involve the government. When pressed about the U.S. urging the government to speed up investigation, Anutin replied, "Which government? Not this government."