Foreign diplomats and representatives of international organisations in Bangkok have voiced concerns over their safety during the People's Democratic Reform Committee (PDRC) mass rally to "shut down" the capital on Monday.
Foreign diplomatsand representatives of international organisations in Bangkok attend a briefing on the political situation at the Foreign Ministry yesterday. PAWAT LAOPAISARNTAKSIN
They voiced their concerns at a meeting yesterday at the Foreign Ministry after permanent secretary Sihasak Phuangketkeow briefed them on the political situation.
Foreign diplomats and 28 ambassadors from 63 foreign embassies, as well as representatives from international organisations attended the meeting.
Mr Sihasak said they were worried the shutdown could affect their work and travel plans as the PDRC plans to set up stages at 20 points around the capital.
However, Mr Sihasak said he told them the government will step up measures to ensure their security.
He said the Foreign Ministry has also given embassies its 24-hour contact number to use in case of an emergency.
The Foreign Ministry and the Centre for Administration of Peace and Order will work as usual on that day.
All foreign diplomats also hope that their cars with diplomatic licence plates will be able to travel freely under diplomatic protection, said Mr Sihasak.
"Thailand, under the Vienna Convention, will take care of diplomats' safety," he said.
"I told them what will happen and clarified how the government has set up a contingency plan for both the diplomats and embassies," said Mr Sihasak.