MFA explains Thailand's situation at ASEAN-EU foreign ministerial meeting

BANGKOK, July 23 (TNA) - Thailand's Acting Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow attends the ASEAN-EU Foreign Ministerial Meeting, held in Brussels from July 22-23, during which he explains the domestic political situation to participating countries. Sihasak, who is also Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs, told TNA on Wednesday that the explanation at the ongoing ASEAN-EU Meeting in Brussels, Belgium's capital, is important, as reactions from the European Union (EU), the United States and Australia had been quite strong to a political change in Thailand on May 22, 2014. Sihasak said he wants to inform other participating countries in the meeting that Thailand, a member country of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), remains a free society, plays important economic roles in the region and is ready to be a partner which should help strengthen the EU. Sihasak confirmed that Thailand is proceeding with its solution roadmap and the interim Charter, promulgated on July 22, is the beginning of the process. Sihasak, meanwhile, discussed Thailand's situation with the EU's foreign affair representative and the latter listened to his information and confirmed Thailand is an important strategic partner of the EU and the European trade bloc wants to see a quick democratic restoration in Thailand, while not imposing any boycott against the Thai economy. The acting foreign minister acknowledged that Thailand will take some times to introduce true democracy, insisting that Thailand maintain trade and investment relations with other countries. The acting Thai foreign minister also affirmed that no politicians are detained and Thailand listens to constructive reactions from the EU. The acting Thai foreign minister then had a meal with European Councilors, who expressed their understanding about Thailand's situation and necessities, while the acting Thai foreign minister invited the European Councilors to visit the Thailand to boost relations and explore more opportunities. (TNA)