Thai-U.S. to enhance bilateral partnership

On 6th August 2008, Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej welcomed President of the United States of America George W. Bush at the Government House as he arrived in Thailand for a two day working visit.  The two leaders held  bilateral discussion which carried on through the dinner hosted by the Prime Minister Samak later in the evening. 

That same day, both leaders also held a press conference. On the auspicious occasion of the celebration of 175th anniversary of Thai-U.S. relations, Prime Minister Samak told the press that Thailand was pleased to welcome President Bush to Thailand.  President Bush recalled his previous audience with His Majesty the King as well as honored the firm and close friendship with Thailand.  Prime Mininister Samak and U.S. President Bush  agreed to further strengthen the relationship and goodwill for the benefit of both countries and the region. 

The two leaders agreed to enhance the growing Thai-U.S. partnership by focusing on education, public health, sciences, security and law enforcement cooperation.  They also agreed to strengthen the already close military and security cooperation.

President Bush praised and thanked Thailand for its leadership in efforts to assist Myanmar in the aftermath of Cyclone Nargis where Thailand served as a staging area to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian assistance into Burma. He also expressed his appreciation for Thailand’s humanitarian role in sheltering displaced persons from neighboring countries for over 30 years.  Meanwhile, Prime Minister Samak thanked the President for the United States’ understanding on the Preah Vihear issue.

Prime Minister Samak said Thailand will use the opportunity as the Chair of ASEAN to strengthen cooperation with the U.S. both bilaterally and through ASEAN.  In response, President Bush pledged to support Thailand in its efforts to advance the region’s prosperity. 

******************

---------------------------------