BANGKOK (NBT WORLD) – Prime Minister and newly appointed Culture Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has announced she will personally oversee her new agency, reaffirming her vision to advance Thailand’s global influence through arts, heritage, and creative industries. Describing the move as a strategic step, she highlighted the Ministry’s unique role in promoting Thai identity and cultural richness on the world stage, despite its relatively small size.
Paetongtarn’s decision represents the government’s long-standing plan to strengthen national soft power by aligning cultural policy more closely with economic and diplomatic goals. She stated that her assumption of the new role had been discussed well before the current legal proceedings, which she continues to address transparently. The Constitutional Court is expected to deliberate on a petition filed by 36 senators later this week, related to an audio clip involving a conversation with Cambodian Senate President Samdech Hun Sen.
Undeterred by political challenges, Paetongtarn made clear her readiness to serve the country and maintain policy momentum. She pointed to active trade negotiations with the United States on tariff barriers as an example of the government’s ongoing engagement in international affairs, which requires consistent leadership and focus.
Addressing the vacant Defense Ministry post, she confirmed that a decision is still under review and that the selection process remains thoughtful and deliberate. She also responded to recent political polling, saying that public opinion, whether supportive or critical, serves as both encouragement and a reminder to continue improving.
Source: NNT
PM Embraces Cultural Role to Enhance Thai Soft Power
