Reading from the same script?

However, by unilaterally issuing the January 13 statement regarding possible terrorist threats without conferring with the Thai government, I’m not sure the benefits outweighed the possible damage the statement could cause.

Issuing the statement without first contacting the Thai authorities caused problems. First, the statement, and subsequent off-the-cuff responses from the Thai deputy prime minister, aided the terrorists’ cause by giving the appearance of confusion between the US and Thai governments on what was initially a bilateral investigation. The US helped Thai officials detect possible terrorist activity, but then issued the warning without talking to those same officials. This not only led to confusion, but more importantly, made both governments look like their communications were inept. Second, the hasty statement could put a strain on the new Thaksin-controlled Thai government and the US by causing the media to cover the story as if there are problems between the two governments. The Thai media had to cover the story the way it was laid out, and unfortunately this only added to potential damage to the fragile Thai economy caused by reduced tourist activities.

I don’t think the US Embassy’s rush to issue the statement will lead to a major problem due to the Thai government’s rather subdued public responses. The Thai government knows the importance of US-Thai relations and seems satisfied to handle the situation in a more behind-the-scenes communications approach rather than responding in ways which could lead to possible protests by Thai officials and citizens. For that, we – the US and Thai governments and citizens alike – should be thankful.

Victor Ogden

Bangkok, Thailand