Myanmar has expressed regret over the death of a Thai national in a recent incident, in which Myanmar patrol boats attacked a flotilla of Thai fishing vessels off Ranong province, according to Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa.
Myanmar's ambassador, U Chit Swe, conveyed the message after being summoned to meet the Thai Foreign Ministry’s director general of the East Asian Department yesterday.
The ambassador promised to follow up on developments regarding the issue.
Following the attack, the Myanmar side detained 31 fishing vessel crew members, including four Thais. They are believed to be held on Zedetkyi Island, pending questioning.
“We have also sought permission for Thai officials to visit the four detained fishermen and hope for their release as soon as possible,” Maris said, adding that the Thai ambassador to Myanmar has been assigned to discuss the matter with Myanmar’s permanent secretary for foreign affairs in Naypyidaw.
Maris has personally conveyed these concerns to his Myanmar counterpart.
Meanwhile, Maj Gen Thanathip Sawangsaeng, the Defence Ministry spokesman, said yesterday that the Thai-Myanmar Border Committee is expected to meet in the next few days in Kawthaung, Myanmar, when the four Thais are expected to be returned.
