Foreign minister praises Thanat
FOREIGN Minister Don Pramudwinai expressed condolences to Thanat’s family yesterday, and praised him as a visionary international affairs expert whose foreign policies were based on national interests.
Thanat, the co-founder of Asean, passed away on Thursday at the age of 102.
Don said he was saddened by Thanat’s death, saying he had been an invaluable person in international affairs.
Don said that during Thanat’s term as foreign minister between 1959 to 1971, he was a determined visionary who ingeniously implemented international policies to serve Thailand’s interests.
He got the country through the Cold War by pushing for the establishment of Asean, Don added.
‘Implemented crucial treaties’
Don said that Thanat built relations with an array of countries in and outside the region, including strengthening Thailand and the region’s security through crucial treaties such as the Thanat-Rusk Communique, which was not only invaluable during the Cold War but remains in effect today.
Apart from that, the US Ambassador Glyn T Davies yesterday also issued a statement on the passing of the former foreign minister.
“On behalf of the American people, I offer our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the people of Thailand,” part of the statement read.
The Ambassador praised Thanat, saying he had many contributions to the stability and prosperity of the region which still benefit the people of the region today.
He added that the United States’ deep and broadening relationship with the region owes much to his original efforts.
