Phumtham 'signed sub deal' before leaving post

Outgoing Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai confirmed he approved the long-delayed submarine procurement deal before stepping down, marking one of his final decisions in office.

- POST REPORTERS

Speaking after a farewell ceremony at the ministry yesterday, Mr Phumtham said the deal was signed before the end of June in his other capacity as the deputy premier overseeing national security. "The submarine deal required my signature, and I approved it before June ended," he told reporters, adding the agreement is now awaiting placement on the cabinet agenda for final endorsement.

The submarine deal, stalled for years due to political and logistical hurdles, was one of the key issues Mr Phumtham aimed to conclude during his nine-month tenure.