<p>The Army is holding 8 activities during this year in honour of HM the King’s 84th birthday in order for the people to appreciate his genius, and to inspire them in their way of life. </p>
<p>The Ministry of Defence is preparing to set up the 7th Infantry Division to oversee the upper north of Thailand with a proposed budget of 9 billion baht. The army denies criticism that the move is to deal with red shirts, but is instead to balance Burma’s military force which is being strengthened.</p>
<p>The army will continue its programme called ‘Fight the economic crisis with the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy’ by sending ISOC staff to visit communities to create unity among the people and explain the military role in the recent crackdown.</p>