Clinton praises strong relations between US and Thailand

BANGKOK, July 21 (TNA) – US Secretary of State Hilary Clinton praised the historically strong relations between the United States and Thailand and said she had a fruitful discussion with Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva on bilateral issues and other matters of mutual interest.
 
Mrs. Clinton paid a courtesy call to Mr. Abhisit at Government House for 30 minutes late Tuesday.
 
At a press conference with Deputy Prime Minister Korbsak Sabhavasu Mrs. Clinton expressed pleasure to be back to Thailand once again to extend the long relations between the two countries that had been established for more than 175 years.
 
The US Secretary of State said her discussion with the Thai premier touched on a wide range of issues, including the US role in building peace and security in the region.
 
The talks also dealt with the North Korean nuclear threat, Myanmar’s human rights record and path to democracy, and terrorism as well as human trafficking and the environment.
 
However, she declined to answer questions about news reports that the CIA has operated secret jails in Thailand, saying that her trip was aimed to strengthen ties. But she added that US President Barack Obama adhered to human rights principles and international law.
 
Meanwhile, Mr. Korbsak said Thailand and the United States have been friends for over 176 years.
 
“The relationship has always been blessed with cordiality and understanding,” he said.
 
He said that at the meeting with Mrs. Clinton, Mr. Abhisit briefed her on the political development in Thailand as well as on the Government’s policies.
 
Mr. Abhisit stressed that, despite the global economic downturn, Thailand still remains attractive for foreign investment.
 
The government remains committed to promoting and facilitating foreign trade and investment,  the prime minister said, and stands ready to engage in consultations with the private sector.
 
Mr. Abhisit also stressed the importance that the government attaches to intellectual property rights and the continuation of the Generalised System of Preferences (GSP) programme for Thai exports to the United States market.
 
As current chair of ASEAN, Mr. Abhisit is pleased with the US decision to accede to the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation.
 
Mrs Clinton and the ASEAN foreign ministers will sign the pact in Phuket tomorrow, an act which reflects the American intention to engage more deeply with ASEAN, a gesture he said Thailand strongly welcomes.
 
Mr. Abhisit also conveyed his warm regards, through Secretary Clinton, to President Obama, said Mr. Korbsak.
 
Mrs. Clinton was scheduled on Wednesday to go to Phuket to attend the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Regional Forum (ARF) as it approaches its conclusion. (TNA)