Beijing's Urgent Call for Compliance

In a significant development following the tragic collapse of a 30-storey building in Bangkok, China's embassy has firmly called upon Chinese companies operating abroad to adhere strictly to local laws. This announcement comes after a deadly incident linked to a Chinese construction firm amidst a powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar, with tremors felt as far away as the Thai capital on March 28.

Details of the Collapse

Remarkably, the ill-fated skyscraper was intended to house new government offices and stood as the only major structure to fail during this seismic event in Bangkok. As investigations begin, Thai authorities are examining evidence suggesting that substandard steel rebar may have been used in the construction, raising serious concerns about construction standards and practices.

Involved Companies

The project, located close to Bangkok's popular Chatuchak market, was a collaboration between China Railway No. 10 Engineering Group (Thailand), part of the massive China Railway Group (CREC), and the local firm Italian-Thai Development (ITD). While efforts to reach the Chinese firm for commentary were unsuccessful, the Italian-Thai partner expressed condolences to the victims' families on Monday, reassuring the public that they remain confident in the integrity of their ongoing projects.

Chinese Embassy's Response

The Chinese embassy in Bangkok offered its "deepest condolences" for the tragic event, emphasizing the importance of compliance with Thai laws. In a poignant message on social media, the embassy reiterated that, "The Chinese government has consistently urged Chinese companies overseas to abide by local laws and contribute positively to the society."

Beijing's Disaster Response

In response to the disaster, Beijing has mobilized a team of rescue experts and disaster relief personnel, promising to continue its support for Thailand during this difficult time. The embassy has also urged Chinese firms to fully cooperate with ongoing investigations, prompting discussions about the need for stricter regulations and oversight in the construction industry.

Looking Ahead

This collapse represents the deadliest incident in Thailand resulting from the earthquake, with reports indicating that most of the 22 fatalities were construction workers, signaling the urgent need for reform in safety practices and regulations in the region. As the investigation unfolds, both the Thai public and international observers will be closely monitoring how this situation develops and what consequences may arise for the involved companies.