8 hours ago
image source, EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock
Anthony Blinken, Secretary of State of the United States of America
U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken’s first visit to Thailand from July 9-10 ended with a call to China. ASEAN leaders pressured the Myanmar government to return democracy to the people.
Meanwhile, meetings and discussions with Thai leaders seemed to be rejoicing and underscored the strong ties. by signing two important documents to expand cooperation in the future both economically Security and clean energy
This visit to Thailand of Mr. Blinken This marks the first visit to Thailand since he was inaugurated in January 2021. Previously, the US secretary of state Plans to travel to Thailand during 15-16 Dec 2021, but had to cancel due to the traveling group contracted with the coronavirus.
At 2:30 p.m., the US Secretary of State met with General Prayut Chan-o-cha, Prime Minister and Minister of Defense. at the Government House The government clarified in the event of the situation in Myanmar that it has closely monitored the situation in Myanmar. and has provided appropriate humanitarian assistance through various channels in the bilateral framework, ASEAN and international organizations.
image source, ROYAL THAI GOVERNMENT/HANDOUT
The meeting between Mr. Blinken and Gen. Prayut covered many issues such as economic cooperation. climate change anti-human trafficking and regional cooperation
While later, in a press conference to the media, Mr Blinken called on the ASEAN Community. Including China, jointly pressured the government of Myanmar to restore democracy to the country and consider a peace deal with political dissent in accordance with the five consensus agreements with ASEAN. Meanwhile, ASEAN needs to call on Myanmar to end its violence and release political prisoners. According to Senior General Min Aung Hlaing signed an agreement with the leaders of the ASEAN 9 nations on the matter in April last year.
“It’s unfortunate that we haven’t seen any positive movement in that area,” Blinken said.
image source, SRT/BBC Thai
Three people injured in a bomb blast in the middle of a house on the Myanmar side on July 1 were transported by boat across the Moei River to be treated in a hospital on the Thai side.
He further explained that In the past, there was an attack. injure groups of dissent with military force and still see opposing groups being prosecuted and imprisoned. Some had to seek asylum in foreign lands.
However, the United States has to commend the Thai government for its humanitarian assistance. including helping the United States Can expand humanitarian cooperation to Myanmar people as well, such as bringing vaccine donations from the United States. to help alleviate the problem of the COVID-19 outbreak in Myanmar
It has not been confirmed that Biden will attend the APEC summit.c
One of the issues of interest to the Thai media on Mr Blinken’s visit is the signal from the US leader. to the Asia-Pacific Cooperation Leaders Meeting (Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation–APEC) or APEC 2022 in November hosted by Thailand, which the US Secretary of State It is unable to confirm at this time whether Mr Joe Biden will attend the meeting or not.
image source, EPA
However, the US will definitely send representatives to attend this regional meeting. because the United States Focus on the APEC cooperation framework and it is very useful for next year that the United States will act as the host of the APEC meeting following Thailand.
Earlier, it was reported that Chinese President Xi Jinping would visit Bangkok. to attend this meeting If not on the mission
Emphasize cooperation in economic-security-clean energy
This morning during a press conference with Mr. Don Pramudwinai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs. Mr. Blinken reiterated the good relationship between Thailand and the United States. Which is looking forward to celebrating the 190th anniversary of diplomatic relations next year.
In terms of economic relations, the United States is pleased that Thailand is a part of the Indo-Pacific Economic Cooperation Framework. (Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) to support economic growth in the region.
image source, POOL
Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand and the United States has signed 2 important documents
In terms of security between Thailand and the United States still tight A few weeks ago, US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin traveled to Thailand for the first time by meeting Gen. Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha discussed regional security cooperation, such as the modernization of the Thai Armed Forces. and effective in training, education, equipment, and the development of the defense industry especially the joint development of cyber and space potential
while both the United States and Thailand working together in solving the climate crisis Mr Blinken said Thailand is the first country to join the Clean Energy Demand Initiative (CEDI) between the Government of the Kingdom of Thailand and the private sector of the United States. To encourage investment for businesses that are interested and have the potential to procure and use clean energy.
“There are already seven private companies that have promised There is interest in investing in Thailand worth more than US$ 2.7 billion (approximately 96.8 billion baht) in clean energy infrastructure. Thailand is driving in this area,” said Blinken.
Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand and the United States has signed 2 important documents as follows:
- Statement Thailand-United States Communiqué on Strategic Alliance and Partnership to show that cooperation between the United States with Thailand having more coverage And the relationship since the Thanat-Rusk Communiqué of 1962 has been strengthened. The document refers to the first United States Strategic and Defense Dialogue held in Washington, D.C., May 9-10. and it aims to emphasize the comprehensiveness of our cooperation. It focuses on the key issues we share in a free, open, sustainable and all-country Indo-Pacific region. including emphasizing economic cooperation law enforcement climate Cybersecurity and technology, security and public health, as well as focusing on expanding public relations. and increased diplomatic capabilities
- Memorandum of Understanding on Promoting Supply Chain Resilience This document is the result of mutual interest between the United States. with Thailand in terms of flexible, diversified and stable supply chains and the importance of our strong bilateral economic ties. Obtained through cooperation to address supply chain weaknesses Minimize interruptions in production and transportation Under this Memorandum of Understanding will enhance the sharing of information consultation including the development of projects to drive such mutual benefits and enhance the wealth between them
image source, Media Department, U.S. Embassy
Anthony Blinken, Secretary of State of the United States of America, arrived in Bangkok on July 9.