The Prime Minister has urged the ASEAN community to be confident Thailand’s August 7 referendum will be closely cared for, while stating the nation’s of ASEAN must move forward together.

Prime Minister Gen Prayuth Chan-ocha, chairing the opening of a ceremony to mark ASEAN Day 2016, addressed a gathering of ambassadors and diplomats representing the countries of ASEAN.

Noting that this year’s ASEAN Day precedes next year’s 50th anniversary of the founding of the bloc, Gen Prayuth remarked that the establishment of the grouping has significantly enhanced political, economic and social cooperation in Southeast Asia. He stated that to ensure peace in the region, all nations of ASEAN must stride towards the future together, bidding they adapt to the rapidly changing world in a unified manner. While acknowledging the varied political circumstances and administrative structures of ASEAN countries, the PM said they must remain aware of their shared benefits and avoid conflict, emphasizing adherence to United Nations guidelines to avoid territorial disputes and trade obstacles.

He also took the opportunity to assure the countries of ASEAN that his government is ready to secure this weekend’s charter referendum, and asked them not to worry that conflict will arise from the vote.