Chiang Rai: The Prime Minister, Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra, distributed citizen ID cards to 72 individuals at the GMS Chiang Rai International Convention and Exhibition Center in Rim Kok Subdistrict, Mueang Chiang Rai District. The event included a meeting with representatives of ethnic groups and participation from the United Nations, including UNHCR and UNICEF. According to Thai News Agency, the Prime Minister expressed her happiness at granting Thai citizenship, noting the long-standing desire of ethnic communities to receive official status. She mentioned the government's commitment to providing welfare and support to those who have felt Thai but lacked formal recognition. The criteria for receiving citizenship include having a name in the house registration, a 13-digit ID number, residency in Thailand for at least 15 years, good behavior, and no imprisonment exceeding five years. The government has revised the citizenship application process to expedite it significantly. The new criteria reduce the pr evious lengthy consideration period, allowing applications for citizenship for those born outside Thailand to be processed within five days instead of 270, and similarly for those born in Thailand, down from 180 days to five. This streamlined process aims to provide hope and inclusivity for ethnic communities seeking Thai citizenship. The Prime Minister also engaged with the local community by wearing an ethnic group shirt and observing a cultural performance. The event concluded with the Prime Minister taking photos with attendees, followed by her return to Bangkok, completing her official mission in the region.