PUBLISHED : 7 Oct 2024 at 15:22
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has firmly defended her choice to utilize an iPad for reading a statement during her meeting with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian.
In a statement, she emphasized the importance of using the device to eliminate errors during international discussions. “English is the predominant language for international meetings, involving specific jargon with significant legal implications,” she explained to reporters. “Reading from a device like an iPad is a common practice worldwide.”
The Prime Minister faced scrutiny online, with netizens questioning the appropriateness of using technology in such a formal setting. A video showed her reading from the tablet while President Pezeshkian listened attentively.
During the meeting on the sidelines of the Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD) summit, the Prime Minister spoke in English while President Pezeshkian communicated in Farsi, the official language of Iran.
It remains unclear whether the Prime Minister used the iPad for other discussions scheduled on Wednesday and Thursday. She also conducted bilateral talks with Tajikistan President Emomali Rahmon and Kuwaiti Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled al-Hamad al-Sabah.
Deputy Prime Minister Phumthai Wechayachai responded to the criticism by urging the public to prioritize the substance of discussions over the medium used, calling the backlash “nonsense.” He stated, “Substance is of utmost importance in international negotiations, not the tools like iPads.”
On Friday, Ms. Paetongtarn expressed satisfaction with her initial experience on the international stage.
Next year, Thailand is set to assume the role of chair for the 35-member ACD.
