Speaking prior to her departure on Sunday afternoon, Ms Pornthiva stated that ASEAN economic ministers will report the progress of the ASEAN Economic Community’s establishment within 2015. Trade and investment in ASEAN will also be elaborated upon to US investors during the road show.

The minister added that ASEAN economic ministers will meet with both public and private sectors of the US such as US Trade Representatives, US Secretary of Commerce Gary Locke, senators, the US-ASEAN Business Council, and other private organizations.

Ms Pornthiva will be on her mission to the US from 2 to 5 May 2010 and will return to Thailand accordingly.

Ms Pornthiva stated that she has prepared to clarify the political situation in Thailand and boost the confidence of US investors since she believes that domestic political upheaval in Thailand would end very soon, and the Thai government is trying hard not to allow such an incident occur again.

The minister admitted that both US Ambassador to Thailand, Eric G John, and US business entrepreneurs in Thailand are worried with the ongoing situation in Thailand as they viewed that the Thai government has not enforced the law seriously, leading to an escalation of the situation.