THURSDAY, March 28, 2024
nationthailand

Some points about US-Thai relations

Some points about US-Thai relations

During the past one and a half years, the US government under President Barack Obama has treated Thailand poorly, unmindful to the two countries’ long relationship.

The following are a few things the US must understand:
First, given its long history, Thailand’s military has been trained to defend its territory as well as to protect its kings. When some recent Thai government leaders were perceived as a threat to the throne, the military naturally reacted. That’s why recent coups happened. No grownup Thais want coups to happen randomly.
Second, Thais do want democracy. However, it must be a democracy that does not allow blatant vote-buying and the pillage of the country through large-scale corruption.
Lastly, some Thais believe the US government is favouring a certain political group to regain power in Bangkok. The locals’ mindset currently is that the US is interfering in Thailand’s internal affairs, uninvited.
Therefore, the Obama administration must act carefully and in a sincere manner towards Thailand, bearing in mind that Thailand is its oldest friend in Asia.
Vint Chavala
Bangkok
 
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