Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha today thanked all who have contributed to the successful search and rescue mission that saved 12 young footballers and their coach from more than two weeks of being stranded in Tham Luang cave in Chiang Rai.
Speaking in a special programme on TV Pool of Thailand, Gen Prayut said upon learning of the disappearance of the Wild Boars soccer team on June 23 the government mobilized all resources both domestically and internationally to search for the boys and their coach. The operation ended successfully after 17 days with all the 13 people safely freed from the cave in what has come to be known as one of the most difficult high-risk rescue operations.
Gen Prayut said in time of difficulty and misery, His Majesty the King and all members of the Royal Family closely followed the operation and provided various kinds of assistance as well as moral support to those taking part in the rescue efforts.
“In the name of the government, I would like to express deep appreciation for the sacrifice and perseverance of all people, organisations, volunteers and Thai and foreign mass media as well as friendly countries for their support in terms of knowledge, manpower and equipment, leading to the success of the operation,” he said.
He said what happened should be taken as an important lesson for all. “Despite difficulties and obstacles, unity, determination and sincere cooperation of all people can overcome all problems,” he said.
