(VOVworld) – The Thai junta announced on Monday that peace in the south, which is densely populated by Muslims, is an urgent national priority.

Secretary General of the National Council for Peace and Order Udomdet Sitabutr told reporters ahead of a visit to the southern region that General Prayuth Chan-ocha wants stronger measures for this region. The announcement came a week after the Muslim holy fasting month of Ramadan began and days after General Prayuth announced the resumption of talks to restore peace in Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. Prayuth said last week that the junta prefers political strategy to military tactics in the south.