The Prime Minister has expressed confidence in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations although he recognizes differences among member countries.

Prime Minister Gen. Prayut Chan-o-cha said that as the world community awaits the reactions from all 10 ASEAN member countries at an upcoming 49th ASEAN Foreign Ministers Meeting regarding the international tribunal’s ruling on the South China Sea dispute, the truth is there are around four or five countries that do not agree with the rest of the group and all is working together to find the best way-out.

PM Prayut said that in order for all ASEAN member countries to share the same stance, there must be a study on this to find a single approach for all with vast diversity, while noting that the uniqueness of the East can never be compared with what is said in the West due to different contexts.

Nevertheless, Gen. Prayut said ASEAN has always listened and respected each country’s decision.