Thai ambassador called in for talks

The government has expressed concerns about the military coup in Thailand through the Thai embassy in Canberra and with Thai authorities in Bangkok.

Thai soldiers stand guard near the Democracy Monument

Foreign Minister Julie Bishop has described the situation on the ground in Thailand as "volatile". (AAP)

The Australian government has expressed grave concerns about the Thailand military coup in meetings with officials in Bangkok and Canberra.

Thailand's ambassador to Australia was called in by the federal government in Canberra on Friday afternoon.

Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade acting secretary Gillian Bird met Maris Sangiampongsa to convey Australia's concerns about the coup at the request of Foreign Minister Julie Bishop.

In Bangkok, Australian ambassador James Wise relayed concerns to the permanent secretary of the Thai foreign ministry.

Ms Bishop has expressed grave concerns about developments in Thailand, describing the situation on the ground as volatile.

She has also urged Australian travellers to exercise caution and pay close attention to their security.

Thailand's army chief has ordered demonstrators on both sides of the kingdom's bitter political divide off the streets after seven months of rallies in the capital.

The development came after the military imposed martial law this week and follows the dismissal this month of prime minister Yingluck Shinawatra.


1 min read

Published

Updated

Source: AAP


Share this with family and friends


Get SBS News daily and direct to your Inbox

Sign up now for the latest news from Australia and around the world direct to your inbox.

By subscribing, you agree to SBS’s terms of service and privacy policy including receiving email updates from SBS.

Follow SBS News

Download our apps

Listen to our podcasts

Get the latest with our News podcasts on your favourite podcast apps.

Watch on SBS

SBS World News

Take a global view with Australia's most comprehensive world news service

Watch now

Watch the latest news videos from Australia and across the world