Protests or demonstrations banned near IMF-World Bank meeting venues

The Metropolitan Police Bureau have imposed a ban on protests or demonstrations around venues being used for IMF-Word Bank meetings, including banquet venues and hotels where 15,000 delegates from 191 countries are staying from yesterday until October 20.

The police say that the ban is intended to ensure that the meetings proceed smoothly and the stay in Bangkok of the delegates is safe to an international standard.

The venues where the ban is imposed include the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC), where the formal meetings are to be held, One Bangkok Forum, where banquets are to be hosted, and 22 hotels where delegates are staying.

According to an announcement from the Prime Minister’s Office, the ban was imposed on yesterday and will last until October 20.

The Metropolitan Police Bureau have sought cooperation from all Thais and all sectors by acting as good hosts to welcome all the delegates.

If they come across any suspicious incidents or items, they are advised to call the 191 hotline or the traffic control centre around the clock.

Meanwhile, motorists are advised to avoid the following roads from tomorrow until October 18:

-Ratchadapisek Road, from the Rama 4 intersection to Asoke intersection and around Benjakitti Park.

-Sukhumvit Road from Nana to Phrom Phong.

-Rama 4 Road near Khlong Toey and area in front of the QSNCC.

-Benjakitti Park, which is partially closed to the public.

-Routes from Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports to hotels in the areas above.