Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva has announced the dissolution of the House of Representatives, paving the way for the general election on July 3.

The dissolution of the highest legislative body and the allowance for a general election will open up a new period for Thailand to effectively solve the country’s major problems under the democratic system, said Thai PM Abhisit at a special television programme on state-run Channel 11 on May 9.

The Thai PM said he acknowledged that Thailand is now facing many challenges, including those regarding economic development, corruption and drug prevention and the settlement of the border dispute as well as political conflict.

He admitted that political conflict persists but said his government has made an all-out effort to promote national reconciliation.

He called on the people to join hands in building the country, especially in helping the poor cope with the high cost of living and improving their living standards.

PM Abhisit claimed that since he came to office in 2008, despite difficulties, the country has reaped remarkable achievements in raising the employment rate, steering the economy out of recession and giving a boost to the agriculture and tourism sectors./.