US hopeful referendum will bring about reconciliation: Davies

He believes August’s referendum on the draft charter will drive the country in line with the “road map” to a return to democracy.

He said the US considered the referendum to have been carried out in a fairly free and fair manner and could plausibly bring reconciliation to the country.

He spoke after meeting with Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Prawit Wongsuwan yesterday.

The meeting was held in preparation for the upcoming Asean Defence Ministers’ Meeting in Hawaii.

Ambassador Davies met with Prawit to discuss what was described as the strong, ongoing security cooperation between the United States and Thailand – a cornerstone of regional peace and security. 

He thanked Prawit for his work in advancing the Asean-US relationship. 

The ambassador also welcomed Thailand’s progress on issues like refugees, climate change and trafficking in persons, and discussed ways to enhance the two countries’ efforts in combating terrorism.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha was in New York yesterday to attend the 71st Regular Session of the UN General Assembly. He met with some 170 Thais to explain the government’s work over the past two years.

He said the country was in dire need of well-rounded reform plans to lay the foundation for improved security and wealth for people.

He said there were many matters in need of reform such as education, transport, migration, human trafficking, politics, and crime fighting. The previous elected government had failed to address these issues, he added. He said he needed to rectify inequality or the problems would resurface.

There were cheers during his speech, with calls for him to remain in power. The junta chief thanked the supporters.

He said crisis created heroes, but he did not want to be considered a hero – he just wanted to play his part so his work was not wasted.