Thailand delays China submarines buy amid public outrage

Thailand delayed on Monday its US$724 million purchase of two submarines from China_ following public outrage over the controversial deal as the kingdom's economy flatlines due to the coronavirus pandemic. Under a 2015 deal_ Thailand was one of the first countries to buy Chinese naval hardware and finalised its purchase of three submarines in 2017_ with the first one expected to be delivered in 2023. An order for two more for 22.5 billion baht (US$724 million) was approved earlier this month by a parliamentary sub-committee - a move which drew public outcry as Thailand struggles with a freefalling economy. Angry Thais took to social media to criticise the deal_ and the hashtag "People don't want submarines" trended on Twitter. Government spokesman Anucha Burapachaisri announced Monday Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha - also defence minister - had "requested the navy to consider a delay" in the purchase of the two additional submarines. "The navy will negotiate with China to delay for another year_" Anucha told reporters. Thailand's economy is also undergoing one of its worst periods in more than 20 years_ contracting 12.2 per cent in the second quarter as its tourism - and exports-led sectors have been hard-hit by the pandemic. "The prime minister has given priority to the concern of the public who are worried about the economy_" Anucha said. Besides questioning military purchases and the government's handling of the economy_ the burgeoning pro-democracy movement is also calling for reforms to the unassailable monarchy - a once-taboo topic in the kingdom.