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Would--like many--applaud the departure of Musk. However, Trump's second term is strategically different. Trump 1 was focused more on the political. Trump 2 is zeroed in on how he can affect the economy. He's much more confident that he has a mandate to rebalance sources of income, apply wide-spread tariffs, rewrite long-standing alliances and all but eliminate foreign aid. As much as Trump would like a third term, he has the luxury of not having to spend half his time trying to get re-elected. He believes--and not without reason--that he has a free hand to do whatever the hell he wants.

This is simply another attempt by Moses to deflect responsibility away from the company responsible for the defective steel. It's located in Rayong, a city in Rayong province on the east coast of Thailand and not in India. Xin Ke Yuan Steel is a Chinese company with offices located throughout the world. But the defective product came from its plant in Rayong, as described in the OP.

We now have a much better idea idea of why the five Chinese nationals were intent on spiriting away cartons of documents from the wreckage of the fatal collapsed high rise The following article from last year sheds light on the Chinese steel manufacturer that supplied the substandard steel. From The Nation AUGUST 12, 2024 Chinese steel investments threaten Thai industry, warns FTI The Federation of Thai Industries raises concerns over the potential domination of Thailand’s steel industry by Chinese companies, calls for regulatory action The Thai steel industry is at risk of being dominated by Chinese companies setting up steel factories in the country, the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) warned on Monday. Kriengkrai Thiennukul, the federation’s chairman, said that the Thai steel industry’s capacity utilisation rate has dropped to its lowest in seven years, with the first six months of this year showing a rate of 29.3%, down from 31.2% in the same period last year. He noted that the impact of Chinese investments, which are expected to boost production capacity to 12.42 million tonnes annually compared to Thailand’s demand of 16 million tonnes. Notably, Xin Ke Yuan Steel Company, located in Rayong’s Ban Khai district, plans to boost its production capacity to 12.09 million tonnes, including wire rod, steel plate, coated steel, steel pipe and structural steel. Similarly, Yongjin Metal Technology in Chonburi’s Nong Yai district is planning a stainless steel factory with a production capacity of 0.322 million tonnes per year, he said, adding that most of the projects have been approved by the Board of Investment. Kriengkrai said these investments are in line with Beijing’s policy to reduce pollution in its own country and navigate trade barriers imposed by other countries. “But once these steel factories are constructed, it will affect domestic manufacturers,” he warned, adding that the Thai steel industry’s capacity utilisation rate will potentially drop even further. Despite this influx of Chinese investment, Kriengkrai assured that Thai manufacturers have enough production capacity to meet the country’s demand. He added that the Industry Ministry should introduce regulations to control the establishment of steel factories in Thailand. He also raised concerns about the import of structural steel that does not meet Thai industrial standards, which could pose safety risks for consumers. He called for the introduction of stricter industrial standards to address this issue. “Imports of structural steel is rising, especially from China,” he said. “In 2023, Thailand imported 426,340 tonnes of structural steel worth 21 billion baht, of which 92% came from China.” Wanchai Phanomchai, secretary-general of the Thai Industrial Standards Institute (TISI), echoed these concerns, warning that the volume of products not meeting Thai industrial standards will likely rise. He identified steel and construction materials (37%), electrical and electronic appliances (33%), car tyres (25%) and consumer products (3%). He urged government agencies to rigorously investigate these issues, emphasising the need for more officials and measurement tools to ensure compliance with Thai standards. https://www.nationthailand.com/business/economy/40040512

From Pattaya News By Adam Judd Bangkok, March 31, 2025 – Test results from 28 steel samples recovered from the wreckage of the collapsed State Audit Office (SAO) building in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district have revealed that two failed to meet required standards, according to Nonthichai Likitaporn, director of the Thai Industrial Standards Institute (TISI)’s Standards Division 1. The findings mark a turning point in the ongoing investigation into the collapse, which occurred on March 28 following a powerful earthquake centered in Mandalay, Myanmar, approximately 392 kilometers from Thailand’s Mae Hong Son province. The 33-storey SAO building, still under construction at the time of the collapse, was intended to serve as the new headquarters for Thailand’s auditing authority. The disaster claimed at least multiple lives, injured dozens, and left scores of workers missing, with rescue operations continuing into Monday evening. The structure, valued at 2.13 billion baht (approximately $63 million USD), was being built by a partnership between a Thai and Chinese company. Nonthichai’s announcement has intensified scrutiny on Xin Ke Yuan Steel Co., Ltd., previously identified as the supplier of the deformed steel bars used in the building’s construction. Earlier this year, in January 2025, the Ministry of Industry charged Xin Ke Yuan Steel with producing substandard steel following an inspection of its factory in Ban Khai, Rayong. That investigation, prompted by a fire incident late last year, uncovered multiple safety and environmental violations, as well as evidence that the company’s steel failed to meet critical strength standards. Authorities seized stock and collected samples at the time, with test results confirming deficiencies that could compromise structural integrity. The collapse has also drawn international attention, with the Chinese Embassy pledging cooperation in the investigation. China Railway Number 10, a subsidiary of the state-owned China Railway No. 10 Engineering Group, holds a 49% stake in the ITD-CREC joint venture—the maximum foreign ownership allowed under Thai law. Continues at https://thepattayanews.com/2025/03/31/some-substandard-steel-used-in-now-collapsed-state-audit-office-building-in-bangkok-confirms-thai-industrial-standards-institute/

Pres. George W. Bush initiated the AIDS funding program worldwide in 2003 and every president since continued it, even Trump in his first term. Strongly suspect Musk was the catalyst for the change. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/President's_Emergency_Plan_for_AIDS_Relief

From Pattaya News Digital Arrival Card Becomes MANDATORY as of May First for International Arrivals, But Questions Linger Starting May 1st, 2025, all non-Thai nationals entering Thailand by air, land, or sea will be required to complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online before arrival. This shift marks a modernization of Thailand’s immigration system, replacing the traditional paper-based TM6 arrival and departure card with a digital process. Designed to enhance efficiency, security, and convenience, the TDAC aims to eliminate the hassle of paper forms while in theory improving the overall travel experience for millions of visitors. Here’s everything you need to know about this new requirement as of press time, but we stress things are subject to change and questions remain about certain aspects. The TDAC is an online form developed by Thailand’s Immigration Bureau to replace the long-standing TM6 paper card, which foreign travelers were previously required to fill out upon arrival and departure. The TM6, a small document collecting personal details, travel information, and accommodation specifics, was traditionally distributed by airlines during flights or available at immigration checkpoints. However, it often caused delays due to illegible handwriting, lost forms, or the sheer volume of passengers processing through busy entry points like Suvarnabhumi Airport. The TDAC digitizes this process, allowing travelers to submit their details—such as full name, nationality, passport number, flight or vehicle details, purpose of visit, and accommodation address—via an online platform before arriving in Thailand. Once submitted, travelers receive a confirmation, likely in the form of a QR code or downloadable document (Still not crystal clear), to present at immigration checkpoints. The system is accessible through the official Immigration Bureau website at tdac.immigration.go.th, which is currently live but not yet accepting submissions as of March 31, 2025. Key Details of the TDAC Requirement Mandatory Date: The TDAC becomes compulsory for all non-Thai nationals starting May 1, 2025. Who Must Submit: All foreign passport holders entering Thailand by air, land, or sea are required to complete the TDAC, with exceptions for those transiting without passing through immigration or using a Border Pass (typically for neighboring countries like Laos or Cambodia). Submission Timing: Travelers must register within three days before their arrival date, including the day of arrival. For example, if you’re arriving on May 1, 2025, you can submit your TDAC as early as April 28, 2025. Cost: The TDAC submission is free of charge, though travelers should beware of fraudulent websites that might attempt to impose fees. Application Process: The form can be completed online via the official TDAC website. An alternative option for last-minute submissions will likely be available at self-service kiosks at immigration counters, though pre-submission is strongly recommended to avoid delays. This aspect is also still not clear. The TDAC also integrates with other Thai government systems, including the Department of Consular Affairs’ E-Visa platform, the Department of Disease Control’s health screening measures, and potentially the future planbed Ministry of Tourism and Sports’ tourist fee collection system, ensuring a cohesive approach to managing visitor data. Continues at https://thepattayanews.com/2025/03/31/thailand-digital-arrival-card-becomes-mandatory-as-of-may-first-for-international-arrivals-but-questions-linger/

There will be a lot of back and forth on the matter of the timeliness of alerts of all types. What does appear clear is that Thailand had the means of monitoring the geological indicators but the lack of a defined protocol on rapid dissemination of the information delayed notifications. From The Globe https://www.globe.co.th/news/thailand/recent-quake-exposes-flaws-in-the-thai-disaster-alert-system/

From CNBC The leader of France’s far-right National Assembly Marine Le Pen has been barred from running for public office for five years after being found guilty of misappropriating EU funds, according to Reuters and French media. The decision is a watershed moment in French politics as its halt her 2027 presidential election hopes and throws her party into disarray after a meteoric rise in popularity in recent years. It’s widely expected that Le Pen will launch an appeal against the conviction. Earlier Monday, Le Pen and eight of the party’s MEPs (members of the European Parliament) were found guilty of embezzlement, meaning Le Pen could have faced a 300,000 euro ($325,000) fine, prison term and an immediate five-year ban from public office — preventing her from running in the 2027 presidential election. The court then announced that the crimes committed by Le Pen and her other co-defendants merited an immediate ban from public office. Le Pen was also given a four-year prison sentence, of which two years will be suspended, and fined 100,000 euros in the judgment read out in Paris. The latter two punishments will not be implemented while any appeals processes are under way but the ban from public office is immediate. The far-right firebrand leader reportedly left court before hearing how long she might be banned from running for public office. The outcome throws France’s powerful right wing into chaos as Le Pen was leading opinion polls ahead of the next presidential vote. https://www.cnbc.com/2025/03/31/frances-le-pen-awaits-verdict-in-embezzlement-trial.html

NOTE -- Don't blame us just because we're the agency to blame. Thai bureaucracy finds I way to avoid responsibility for its responsibility. From The Nation An NBTC member blamed the chairman for delays in SMS quake alerts, citing centralised power as the reason many Bangkok residents received no warning. A member of the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) has seemingly blamed the NBTC chairman for the delay or absence of SMS alert messages warning the public about Friday’s earthquake. Thanapant Raicharoen posted on his Facebook page on Saturday, suggesting that the delay or lack of SMS alerts regarding the Myanmar earthquake—felt in Bangkok—was due to NBTC chairman Sarana Boonbaichaiyapruck centralising power in himself. On Friday, after Myanmar was struck by an 8.2-magnitude earthquake at 1:20 pm, the tremors were felt and reportedly amplified by Bangkok’s geological conditions. Many people took to social media to complain that they had received no warning or alert from the authorities, particularly the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department (DPMD). The DPMD is currently developing a cell broadcast system to provide public disaster alerts. Until this system is operational, the NBTC Office is responsible for coordinating between the DPMD and mobile phone operators. https://www.nationthailand.com/news/general/40048120

NOTE -- The Thailand Hotel Association (THA) is always quick to predict gloom and doom whenever an occasion arises in hopes of winning political support. IMO, tourists aren't as fearful as the THA would have us believe. Buy if they are, hotels always have the option of cutting rates to attract more bookings. ============ From The Nation The earthquake last week is expected to cause Thailand’s tourism sector revenue to fall by 10-15% over the next two weeks, the Thai Hotels Association (THA) said on Monday. THA president Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun said that requests from tourists for early hotel checkouts surged by 8-10% nationwide after the earthquake, particularly in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and Ayutthaya. Some tourists opted to change their destinations to Pattaya and Phuket instead, he said. The association anticipates that the incident will affect foreign tourists’ confidence in safety over the next two weeks, both for those who have booked travel but have yet to arrive and for those still deciding whether to travel, he added. He expects hotel and tourism business revenue to decline by at least 10-15%. “The association expects that the earthquake will have a lasting impact on the Songkran tourism atmosphere, making it more subdued than in the past two years. It is estimated that it will take a month to return to normal,” he said. Continues at https://www.nationthailand.com/business/economy/40048121

Exactly!

From Pattaya Mail By Barry Kenyon Thai international law attorney Victor Wong doubts that the major concern of either Thai immigration or the Thai Revenue Department is the plight of retiree expats on fixed incomes. He told Pattaya Mail that TRD was aware of billions of baht imported dubiously into Thailand via off-shore accounts, cryptocurrency transactions and untaxed income from overseas corporations. Both Thai citizens and foreign speculators were involved. As regards Thai immigration authorities, their main concern is visa-related regulation and investigations into business fraud such as unauthorized working, use of nominees as shareholders and illegal short-term renting of condominium units. “In spite of rumors, I have seen no evidence of TRD seeking to identify expats through their visas except those who are accused of a criminal offence,” said Victor. He said that TRD had introduced the policy (a reinterpretation and not a change in the law) that “assessable” overseas income was subject to taxation from January 2024, but there were many exceptions. Thus foreigners living in Thailand for less than 180 days in the calendar year are exempt, as are those who transferred less than 120,000 baht (around US$3,500) or those living on historical savings (money transferred on or before December 31 2023). Double taxation treaties are also relevant according to Professor Suthasinee Piriyakijkomol, a tax auditor and associate judge of the Labor Court. “The agreements differ country by country, but my advice is to keep a detailed record of tax paid in the home country as this can be used, if need be, to offset any future TRD demands,” she said. She agreed that some agreements were more detailed than others on personal taxation. For example, the American treaty is more detailed on US pension or social security income, and where it should be paid, than the British one. Victor said that one of the biggest loopholes in tax collection is cryptocurrency which can lead to investment fraud, mule accounts and money laundering. For example, traders change currency to stablecoins, then quickly transfer that to a digital asset exchange outside the country and finally change it to cash again. “The point here is that these crimes are rarely, if ever, connected to retirees living out their later lives here. But they consume a great deal of Revenue and police time.” Continues at https://www.pattayamail.com/business/thai-lawyer-downplays-expat-visa-awards-versus-personal-taxation-worries-495793

From Pattaya Mail Thailand is poised to become Asia’s leading destination for senior tourism and long-term retirement living as the country adapts to the challenges of an ageing population. With 20% of its 66 million people—some 13 million individuals—already aged over 60, and a further 16 million set to join them within the next two decades, demand for senior-friendly travel and accommodation is surging. Recognising the vast potential of the “Silver Economy,” leading hospitality, healthcare, and real estate firms are investing in tailored travel experiences, wellness tourism, and residential care communities to meet the needs of senior travellers and retirees. The senior care sector alone is expected to grow by 30% annually, reaching a value of 20 billion baht by 2033. With its world-class healthcare system, affordable cost of living, and exceptional hospitality, Thailand is well-positioned to attract senior travellers from around the world. Existing senior-focused developments, such as Sawangkanives by the Thai Red Cross and Baan Lalisa Healthcare Service Group, have already proven the strong demand for high-quality, affordable senior living options. Continues at https://www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/thailand-eyes-senior-tourism-boom-as-ageing-population-grows-495971

From The Thaiger Thailand is making moves to woo foreign investors and expats, rolling out a brand-new one-stop shop for investment and visa services in the heart of Bangkok. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra cut the ribbon on Monday at the grand opening of the Thailand Investment and Expat Services Centre (TIESC), housed in the sleek One Bangkok building in Pathum Wan. Located on the corner of Witthayu and Rama IV roads, right next to Lumpini Park, the centre is set to streamline bureaucracy and fast-track investment, visa, and work permit processes. Spanning the 6th and 7th floors of the Parade Zone, TIESC is a joint effort by the Board of Investment, the Immigration Bureau, and the Department of Employment. The goal? To make Thailand an even hotter destination for international investors and long-term expats. The 38 year old prime minister highlighted Thailand’s economic transformation, pointing out that last year’s 3,100 investment applications, worth a staggering 1.1 trillion baht, reflected growing global confidence in the country. The new centre arrives as Thailand shakes up its visa policies to attract more tourists and long-term residents, Bangkok Post reported. https://thethaiger.com/guides/visa-information/thai-me-down-bangkok-opens-new-visa-expat-and-investor-hub

The Nazis kept very good records. They don't have a monopoly on wrongheadiness.

Yes. I base it on how long we'd been together and what occurred before it became apparent that he couldn't sustain erection. For customers who are only looking for a bottom, the erection may be a moot point

From the BBC Richard Chamberlain, the actor best known for his role in the 1960s medical drama Dr Kildare and leading role in Shogun, has died aged 90, his publicist has confirmed to the BBC. Chamberlain earned the title "king of the mini-series" for his leading roles in Shogun and The Thorn Birds. He died late on Saturday night local time (10:15 GMT Sunday) in Waimanalo, Hawaii, after suffering complications from a stroke, his publicist Harlan Boll confirmed - just hours before he would have turned 91. Martin Rabbett, Chamberlain's longtime partner, called him an "amazing and loving soul" in a statement. https://www.gayguides.com/forum/63-theater-movies-art-and-literature/?do=add

From Pattaya News Chinese Nationals removed documents from collapse site Bangkok, March 30, 2025 – A legal officer from the Civil Affairs Division of the Chatuchak District Office has filed a formal complaint with the Bang Sue Police Station, accusing five Chinese nationals of violating an official directive. The group allegedly entered a restricted area—the site of a collapsed building under construction for the State Audit Office of Thailand—and removed critical documents, including blueprints and other paperwork, from the premises. The incident comes from the collapse of the under construction 33-story office building in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district, which occurred on March 28, 2025, following a powerful earthquake originating in Myanmar. The disaster has prompted relevant authorities to declare the site a restricted disaster zone under Thailand’s Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Act. This designation prohibits unauthorized entry, with violators facing up to three months in prison, a fine of up to 6,000 baht, or both. According to multiple Thai media reports, the five Chinese nationals entered the site without permission and were observed by witnesses transporting documents out of the construction area. The documents in question reportedly included architectural blueprints and other materials related to the building project, raising concerns about their intentions. The legal officer’s complaint, lodged on March 30, 2025, seeks to hold them accountable for breaching the emergency order issued by the Governor of Bangkok. The collapsed building, intended to serve as the new headquarters for the State Audit Office, was being constructed by a joint venture involving a Chinese company and a prominent Thai construction firm. Continues with photos https://thepattayanews.com/2025/03/30/legal-action-taken-against-five-chinese-nationals-for-unauthorized-entry-into-collapsed-skyscraper-in-bangkok-to-allegedly-remove-building-documents/ ======= Concerns Raised Over Steel Quality Bangkok, March 30, 2025 – In the wake of the collapse of the under construction State Audit Office building in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district, some alleged building experts have pointed to potential alleged flaws in the quality of the steel reinforcements used in its construction. However, the Thai Minister of Industry said samples were taken and needed further testing before firm conclusions could be made. Posts on social media and statements from alleged engineering professionals have highlighted a troubling hypothesis: The steel reinforcements, specifically identified as DB.32 SD.50 grade, may have been substandard. According to one expert cited in online discussions, laboratory tests on this type of steel have consistently shown a low yield strength, despite meeting minimum tensile strength requirements of over 5,000 kg/cm². Critically, the steel reportedly exhibits issues during bending tests, with tendencies to crack or split into layers, suggesting a major issue and problem for structures in seismic zones. “This type of steel has a history of problems,” noted an anonymous civil engineering veteran online . “The low yield point combined with poor bending performance makes it a risky choice for tall buildings, especially in an area that could experience seismic activity. If this was indeed used in the collapsed building, it could explain why it failed so catastrophically while others stood firm.” Continues at https://thepattayanews.com/2025/03/30/experts-raise-concerns-over-steel-quality-in-collapsed-bangkok-building-following-earthquake/

From The Nation Strong 5.1 magnitude aftershock strikes Myanmar near Mandalay A strong 5.1 magnitude aftershock struck Myanmar on Sunday afternoon, according to a report by Krungthep Turakij, citing foreign media outlets. However, no damage has been reported from this aftershock. The bureau stated that as of 1 pm on Sunday, a total of 169 aftershocks had been detected, ranging from magnitudes 1 to 7. The main earthquake took place at 1.20 pm on Friday, with the epicentre located near Mandalay. the bureau, the 169 aftershocks were categorised into the following magnitude levels: 1.0–2.9: 43 aftershocks 3.0–3.9: 79 aftershocks 4.0–4.9: 40 aftershocks 5.0–5.9: 6 aftershocks 7.0 or greater: 1 aftershock https://www.nationthailand.com/news/world/40048084

+1 I don't care if they are a top or bottom, but if they can't stay hard the session is over as far I'm concerned. Doesn't happen often but when it does there's only one alternative: get dressed, deliver appropriate tip and leave.

From Pattaya News March 30, 2025 – As Thailand gears up for the highly anticipated Songkran Festival, the traditional Thai New Year celebrated with vibrant water fights and cultural festivities, authorities and local organizers have confirmed that the recent earthquake in the region will not disrupt planned activities. Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra addressed the nation earlier today, stating, “The situation in Thailand has stabilized, and we are working tirelessly to ensure safety and normalcy. Songkran is a cornerstone of our culture and economy, and we are committed to ensuring it goes ahead as a time of joy and renewal.” Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt echoed this sentiment, noting that the city’s earthquake response command center has assessed damages and found them limited to specific sites, leaving key festival areas like Silom Road and Khao San Road unscathed. https://thepattayanews.com/2025/03/30/thailand-assures-songkran-activities-will-proceed-unaffected-by-recent-earthquake/

Two brothers, who who started their business careers in Bangkok nearly 125 years ago, hail from Swatow, China, the hometown of many of Thailand's most successful industrialists. The influence of the Swatow region is mentioned in John Burdet's Bangkok Eight. From Wikipedia: With some 200 business subsidiaries in mainland China, CP Group is known in China as "Zhèng Dà" (正大 - "positive" or "upright"). When China opened up its economy in 1978, the CP Group was the first foreign investor in the country and became the first foreign company registered in the special economic zone of Shenzhen, Guangdong. The company is the single largest investor in mainland China today commanding over a fifth of China's entire feed meal market.[10] The corporate registration number was "0001." Through its extensive investments, CP Group has been credited with changing the country's dietary habits and leading China's green revolution.[11] Charoen Pokphand traces its beginnings back to 1921, when immigrant brothers Chia Ek Chor (謝易初) and Chia Jin Hyang (謝進賢), hailing from Swatow, China, started a seed store named Chia Tai Chung on Song Sawat Road in Bangkok's Chinatown during the reign of King Rama VI. They imported seeds and vegetables from China and exported pigs and eggs to Hong Kong, Taipei, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore. The two brothers, who were virtually penniless, managed to scrape together enough capital to start their tiny seed shop. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charoen_Pokphand

From Bangkok Post The board of the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has approved a revised contract for the high-speed rail project linking three airports -- Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi and U-Tapao -- which is scheduled for signing by June. This amendment marks a critical step in the long-delayed project. The final signing is expected in June, after which the SRT will issue a notice to proceed (NTP) for construction. The project is scheduled for completion within five years, with operations expected to begin by 2029. To prevent further delays, the SRT has prioritised construction at U-Tapao airport's overlapping sections with the Sino-Thai high-speed rail project. Construction was initially planned to begin in 2021. One of the key contract amendments was the change of the payment method for the public investment cost (PIC). Instead of paying the private partner 149.65 billion baht in instalments for 10 years after operations begin, the government will make progress-based payments, capped at 120 billion baht. The private partner, Asia Era One, must provide additional guarantees totalling 152.16 billion baht. In addition, the company will pay the 10.67-billion-baht investment fee for the Airport Rail Link (ARL) project in seven equal annual instalments, with the first instalment paid on the contract amendment signing date. Another amendment is the revenue sharing adjustment. If project loan interest rates decrease significantly and Asia Era One's internal rate of return exceeds 5.52%, the SRT will have the right to claim additional revenue sharing. https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2990257/srt-okays-contract-change-for-airport-link-project?tbref=hp

Have you found a carrier that will get you home (US or Mexico) with emergency passport?

The Mahanakhon sways in the quake. https://www.facebook.com/reel/669362185585297