Thailand lodges protest with US over comments

[webfact]

Protest lodged with US
The Nation


US charge d'affairs Patrick Murphy leaves the Foreign Ministry building after meeting with Deputy Foreign Minister Don Pramudwinai yesterday.

ENVOY SUMMONED AND TOLD THAT OFFICIAL'S COMMENTS 'HURT' THAI SENTIMENTS AND WERE AN 'INTERFERENCE IN THAILAND'S INTERNAL AFFAIRS'

BANGKOK: -- IN A MOVE seen as an attempt to protect what Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha called "national dignity", the Foreign Ministry yesterday summoned US charge d'affaires Patrick Murphy to express disappointment over the comments by a senior American official.

Murphy was also told that the comments were tantamount to an interference in Thailand's internal affairs.

"As prime minister, I will not let any country interfere in our affairs. Every country has dignity. Thailand has dignity and we respect every country. I am sorry to hear opinions that do not reflect the truth. I am sorry that we have been friends for a long time. I am not the enemy," Prayut said.

US Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Daniel Russel, who visited Thailand on Monday, had ruffled feathers when he called on the junta government to lift martial law and ensure inclusive reforms. He also remarked that the impeachment of former PM Yingluck Shinawatra was likely to be seen as driven by political motivation.

Deputy Foreign Minister Don Pramud-winai said after a meeting with Murphy that the statements made by Russel during his visit to Bangkok had hurt Thai sentiments.

Don said Murphy was "invited" to the meeting as Bangkok wanted to explain the facts of the political situation in Thailand.

However, observers |said the nature of the |meeting could be con-sidered as a protest as it took place early in the morning and just hours after the prime minister's order.

Thammasat University academic Surachai Sirikrai said the summoning of an envoy is a normal diplomatic practice when the government has something to convey for better understanding. Countries usually use the diplomatic channel to communicate with each other when they need to explain or clarify anything, he said. China and Japan, when they are in conflict, also use this channel to communicate, he added. "In this case, Murphy would convey the message to the US State Department in Washington," he said.

During his visit, Russel met former premiers Yingluck and Abhisit Vejjajiva as well as Foreign Minister Tanasak Patimapagorn to discuss the political situation.

But the statement that upset junta chief Prayut was the one Russel delivered at Chulalongkorn University.

Russel - the most senior US official to visit Thailand since the coup - said "the perception of fairness is important" while stressing the US was not taking sides in Thai politics.

"When an elected leader is deposed, impeached by the authorities that implemented the coup, and then targeted with criminal charges while basic democratic processes and institutions are interrupted, the international community is left with the impression that these steps could be politically driven," he said.

Don told a press conference that Thais felt Russel's statement and his visit hurt local sentiments and could even fuel the political conflict in Thailand.

"Instead of taking the opportunity to say something good, particularly promoting good bilateral relations, he [Russel] talked about domestic politics, which is not useful and tarnished Thailand's image," Don said.

"It is very disappointing and we regard it as interference in Thailand’s domestic political affairs," the deputy minister said.

"We assume that the US does not understand Thai politics, particularly when it talks about martial law, by saying that it wished Thailand lifted it," he said. If the law were to be lifted, Don posed, who would take responsibility if something adverse happened?

While not ignoring the concerns of the US, he said the country is stepping towards democracy with dignity. The current situation in Thailand has no impact on US society or its economy. On the contrary, the US received better cooperation during the political chaos. "Maybe the US disagrees in principle only," Don said.

Asked if there would be any negative consequences on bilateral relations as a fallout of the remarks, Prayut said ties between the two countries were still good. Bilateral trade is as normal. "We have been trying to reach out more to the US than we would do in normal political circumstances. However, representatives from the US and Europe have confidence in the government's performance."

Prayut urged the US to listen to both political camps and take into account differences in each country. "They may think of Western-style democracy but our lifestyle and our politicians are different," he said.

The deputy foreign minister also informed the US side of the prime minister's plan to attend the 70th United Nations General Assembly in New York in September this year and of the hope that the US would take this opportunity to reinforce bilateral ties.

Source: http://www.nationmultimedia.com/politics/Protest-lodged-with-US-30252916.html

-- The Nation 2015-01-29

[Somtamnication]

"I am sorry that we have been friends for a long time"

Classic!!

[NongKhaiKid]

Now for the statement that the US understands everything and fully supports the junta and the road map for the future.

Sorted, attitude adjusted.

[Jingthing]

Truthiness meets Thainess ... film at 11!

Edited January 28, 2015 by Jingthing

[Crazy chef 1]

just switch off the money tap(Cobra gold)and statements w e will see what hurts...

[PepperMe]

just switch off the money tap(Cobra gold)and statements w e will see what hurts...

What?.... all $3.5 Million a year?

Wow, that is going to make a massive dent in the economy.

The leader probably pays himself that a week.

[willyumiii]

Ever Drive through the Thai military base in Korat?

Every piece of military equipment you see is American.

Somebody is not thinking.

[NeilSA1]

Surely Russel - 'the most senior (diplomatic) US official to visit Thailand since the coup ' should have had the common courtesy to include the PM in his visits. Regardless of peoples personal views and thoughts, it was clearly a deliberate snub. Russel could still have said what he did say, but was there a real need to be so disrespectful ?,

Courtesy - "polite behavior that shows respect for other people."

[Robby nz]

There is no doubt that the US gent accepted Yinglucks side of everything without attempting to get a balanced view of what had happened to lead to her impeachment.

That being the case the statements that were made at the university were completely one sided.

Furthermore the fact they Yingluck met with the US envoy and gave what could only have been a one sided version of events was a deliberate attempt to sway international opinion against Thailand and a direct attack on the country and the Thai people.

These comments will have been reported internationally and coming from a US envoy will be accepted as the truth, while they are only half truths at best.

The Shins care not that they will hurt the country and the people. It shows just how far these people are prepared to go in their own self interest.

[jonclark]

"When an elected leader is deposed, impeached by the authorities that implemented the coup, and then targeted with criminal charges while basic democratic processes and institutions are interrupted.."

So this statement is untrue then?? This has not happened??

[2fishin2]

There is no doubt that the US gent accepted Yinglucks side of everything without attempting to get a balanced view of what had happened to lead to her impeachment.

That being the case the statements that were made at the university were completely one sided.

Furthermore the fact they Yingluck met with the US envoy and gave what could only have been a one sided version of events was a deliberate attempt to sway international opinion against Thailand and a direct attack on the country and the Thai people.

These comments will have been reported internationally and coming from a US envoy will be accepted as the truth, while they are only half truths at best.

The Shins care not that they will hurt the country and the people. It shows just how far these people are prepared to go in their own self interest.

Huh? Ying talked and he listened of course normal conversation. BUT, just because she talked doesnt mean he took everything as truth.

It doesnt take a rocket scientist to see what has happened here. Military over through a democratically elected government, ie coup. The country is under martial law. Many problems are surfacing regarding foreigners and police crackdowns. The government is passing communication laws to limit freedoms. I could go on and on about all the crap that has happened and is reported in the media.

I think we should round up all,the junta lovers and send them to the moon. What a bunch of morons....

[yellowboat]

Surely Russel - 'the most senior (diplomatic) US official to visit Thailand since the coup ' should have had the common courtesy to include the PM in his visits. Regardless of peoples personal views and thoughts, it was clearly a deliberate snub. Russel could still have said what he did say, but was there a real need to be so disrespectful ?,

Courtesy - "polite behavior that shows respect for other people."

The choice of words were polite, just not sugar coated. The message is clear: some in the US feel coups are wrong. Given past actions of the US, Russel's statements could sound a bit hollow. As for the snub, the junta by past and recent actions has yet to prove it did anything in good consciences .

[yellowboat]

There is no doubt that the US gent accepted Yinglucks side of everything without attempting to get a balanced view of what had happened to lead to her impeachment.

That being the case the statements that were made at the university were completely one sided.

Furthermore the fact they Yingluck met with the US envoy and gave what could only have been a one sided version of events was a deliberate attempt to sway international opinion against Thailand and a direct attack on the country and the Thai people.

These comments will have been reported internationally and coming from a US envoy will be accepted as the truth, while they are only half truths at best.

The Shins care not that they will hurt the country and the people. It shows just how far these people are prepared to go in their own self interest.

His statements are regarding judicial process and not innocence or guilt. The process was stacked against her and that overshadows the outcome.

[canuckamuck]

There is no doubt that the US gent accepted Yinglucks side of everything without attempting to get a balanced view of what had happened to lead to her impeachment.

That being the case the statements that were made at the university were completely one sided.

Furthermore the fact they Yingluck met with the US envoy and gave what could only have been a one sided version of events was a deliberate attempt to sway international opinion against Thailand and a direct attack on the country and the Thai people.

These comments will have been reported internationally and coming from a US envoy will be accepted as the truth, while they are only half truths at best.

The Shins care not that they will hurt the country and the people. It shows just how far these people are prepared to go in their own self interest.

Yes of course it is Thaksin's careful manipulation of the events that has caused the Americans to consider: a military takeover, removal of democracy, criminal charges against the former elected government, and a systematic removal of basic freedoms, as a bad thing.

[futsukayoi]

There is no doubt that the US gent accepted Yinglucks side of everything without attempting to get a balanced view of what had happened to lead to her impeachment.

That being the case the statements that were made at the university were completely one sided.

Furthermore the fact they Yingluck met with the US envoy and gave what could only have been a one sided version of events was a deliberate attempt to sway international opinion against Thailand and a direct attack on the country and the Thai people.

These comments will have been reported internationally and coming from a US envoy will be accepted as the truth, while they are only half truths at best.

The Shins care not that they will hurt the country and the people. It shows just how far these people are prepared to go in their own self interest.

The fact that he met with the legitimately elected PM and demonstrated US support for democracy will hopefully sway international opinion, but I doubt it. It also seems a little hypocritical when Obama is at the same time showing support for a hardlin dictatorship in Saudi.

[talktomarty]

The problem is that Prayut, the royal establishment and the Bangkok elite, truly believe from the bottom of their hearts that true democracy is only reserved for the rich and powerful. In their eyes the poor should have no say on who rules the country and the US is fully aware of this. The US will ramp up the pressure now, notice the timing of this high level visit?

[Diplomatico]

There is no doubt that the US gent accepted Yinglucks side of everything without attempting to get a balanced view of what had happened to lead to her impeachment.

That being the case the statements that were made at the university were completely one sided.

Furthermore the fact they Yingluck met with the US envoy and gave what could only have been a one sided version of events was a deliberate attempt to sway international opinion against Thailand and a direct attack on the country and the Thai people.

These comments will have been reported internationally and coming from a US envoy will be accepted as the truth, while they are only half truths at best.

The Shins care not that they will hurt the country and the people. It shows just how far these people are prepared to go in their own self interest.

His statements are regarding judicial process and not innocence or guilt. The process was stacked against her and that overshadows the outcome.

His comments were toned down....the apologists for the ruling military junta are really not going to like the editorial in today's Bangkok Post which is unequivocal in saying the impeachment showed total disregard for the rule of law and will go down as one of the most horrendous events in Thailand's history.

Edited January 29, 2015 by Diplomatico

[useronthenet]

The problem is that Prayut, the royal establishment and the Bangkok elite, truly believe from the bottom of their hearts that true democracy is only reserved for the rich and powerful. In their eyes the poor should have no say on who rules the country and the US is fully aware of this. The US will ramp up the pressure now, notice the timing of this high level visit?

Problem is the US is very much out of touch with the political situation in Thailand.

Perhaps it would be wiser for the US to first engage brain before opening mouth.

[rijb]

The problem is that Prayut, the royal establishment and the Bangkok elite, truly believe from the bottom of their hearts that true democracy is only reserved for the rich and powerful. In their eyes the poor should have no say on who rules the country and the US is fully aware of this. The US will ramp up the pressure now, notice the timing of this high level visit?

Problem is the US is very much out of touch with the political situation in Thailand.

Perhaps it would be wiser for the US to first engage brain before opening mouth.

How exactly is the US out of touch?

Are you in touch?

[useronthenet]

The problem is that Prayut, the royal establishment and the Bangkok elite, truly believe from the bottom of their hearts that true democracy is only reserved for the rich and powerful. In their eyes the poor should have no say on who rules the country and the US is fully aware of this. The US will ramp up the pressure now, notice the timing of this high level visit?

Problem is the US is very much out of touch with the political situation in Thailand.

Perhaps it would be wiser for the US to first engage brain before opening mouth.

How exactly is the US out of touch?

Are you in touch?

I thought that was plainly obvious .... a country which assumes that everything it black and white, when clearly the situation in Thailand is much more complicated than that, many shades of grey. The coup d'etat is hear to stay for a very valid reason. US yet again is interfering with the internal affairs of the country, by coming out with rather brash statements which are counter-productive. This rhetoric from the US has no value, and perhaps the country should devote more time in concentrating on more pressing issues in terms of addressing it's own internal problems.

By your question, you seem rather out of touch yourself !

[2fishin2]

The problem is that Prayut, the royal establishment and the Bangkok elite, truly believe from the bottom of their hearts that true democracy is only reserved for the rich and powerful. In their eyes the poor should have no say on who rules the country and the US is fully aware of this. The US will ramp up the pressure now, notice the timing of this high level visit?

Problem is the US is very much out of touch with the political situation in Thailand.

Perhaps it would be wiser for the US to first engage brain before opening mouth.

Engage brain, opening IPad, typing....even a monkey knows a military overthrow of an elected government took place.

Another candidate for the moon.

[rijb]

The problem is that Prayut, the royal establishment and the Bangkok elite, truly believe from the bottom of their hearts that true democracy is only reserved for the rich and powerful. In their eyes the poor should have no say on who rules the country and the US is fully aware of this. The US will ramp up the pressure now, notice the timing of this high level visit?

Problem is the US is very much out of touch with the political situation in Thailand.

Perhaps it would be wiser for the US to first engage brain before opening mouth.

How exactly is the US out of touch?

Are you in touch?

I thought that was plainly obvious .... a country which assumes that everything it black and white, when clearly the situation in Thailand is much more complicated than that, many shades of grey. The coup d'etat is hear to stay for a very valid reason. US yet again is interfering with the internal affairs of the country, by coming out with rather brash statements which are counter-productive. This rhetoric from the US has no value, and perhaps the country should devote more time in concentrating on more pressing issues in terms of addressing it's own internal problems.

By your question, you seem rather out of touch yourself !

What brash statements?

Concerning YL, do you disagree with this: "the international community is left with the impression that these steps could be politically driven"

Concerning US relationship with Thailand: "cannot return to normal until democracy is re-established"

Dumb it down for us. How is the US interfering? Did you see any drones?

[geriatrickid]

Surely Russel - 'the most senior (diplomatic) US official to visit Thailand since the coup ' should have had the common courtesy to include the PM in his visits. Regardless of peoples personal views and thoughts, it was clearly a deliberate snub. Russel could still have said what he did say, but was there a real need to be so disrespectful ?,

Courtesy - "polite behavior that shows respect for other people."

Take it up with the US State Department. He was acting on instruction. His speech was vetted and his comments were known at State long before he made them in Thailand. If you think this wasn't planned or thought out, you are mistaken.

You consider him to be disrespectful, but his statements were a repetition of already stated policy. The audience was not offended. The offense is construed by those who undertook and supported a coup d'état. His statements were also far less blunt than those of the EU or other foreign ministers. You obviously support the coup d'état, however, you should understand that most of the developed free world does not and they will speak out in an honest and peaceful manner. This "altercation" is to be expected and is the result of a coup.

[Thaiready]

There is no doubt that the US gent accepted Yinglucks side of everything without attempting to get a balanced view of what had happened to lead to her impeachment.

That being the case the statements that were made at the university were completely one sided.

Furthermore the fact they Yingluck met with the US envoy and gave what could only have been a one sided version of events was a deliberate attempt to sway international opinion against Thailand and a direct attack on the country and the Thai people.

These comments will have been reported internationally and coming from a US envoy will be accepted as the truth, while they are only half truths at best.

The Shins care not that they will hurt the country and the people. It shows just how far these people are prepared to go in their own self interest.

Huh? Ying talked and he listened of course normal conversation. BUT, just because she talked doesnt mean he took everything as truth.

It doesnt take a rocket scientist to see what has happened here. Military over through a democratically elected government, ie coup. The country is under martial law. Many problems are surfacing regarding foreigners and police crackdowns. The government is passing communication laws to limit freedoms. I could go on and on about all the crap that has happened and is reported in the media.

I think we should round up all,the junta lovers and send them to the moon. What a bunch of morons....

+++++1

[rijb]

The coup d'état supporters are getting more defensive than the clowns in North Korea .

[oneday]

Why don't these, less than brilliant people, realize that just keeping their mouths shut when they feel offended would go a long way to keeping all this controversy out of the news. Whining like a baby makes you look like a baby.

Boo hoo

[Thaiready]

The problem is that Prayut, the royal establishment and the Bangkok elite, truly believe from the bottom of their hearts that true democracy is only reserved for the rich and powerful. In their eyes the poor should have no say on who rules the country and the US is fully aware of this. The US will ramp up the pressure now, notice the timing of this high level visit?

Problem is the US is very much out of touch with the political situation in Thailand.

Perhaps it would be wiser for the US to first engage brain before opening mouth.

How exactly is the US out of touch?

Are you in touch?

I thought that was plainly obvious .... a country which assumes that everything it black and white, when clearly the situation in Thailand is much more complicated than that, many shades of grey. The coup d'etat is hear to stay for a very valid reason. US yet again is interfering with the internal affairs of the country, by coming out with rather brash statements which are counter-productive. This rhetoric from the US has no value, and perhaps the country should devote more time in concentrating on more pressing issues in terms of addressing it's own internal problems.

By your question, you seem rather out of touch yourself !

And you thought up that comment all by yourself......bet your Mama proud.

[garyk]

Being an american that lives here. I will have to say I am happy with the situation at present. Bangkok is not burning, No rioting.

I can get from point A to point B with out a detour. I drive around daily, and the military have been very helpful and friendly.

Politic's aside, because I know nothing about politic's in Thailand. Things seem NORMAL....

If things would get better in the south. Perfect.

So, I could care less what an american politician says. If it gets crazy again I may go back to America and find another retirement home..

[kblaze]

There is no doubt that the US gent accepted Yinglucks side of everything without attempting to get a balanced view of what had happened to lead to her impeachment.

That being the case the statements that were made at the university were completely one sided.

Furthermore the fact they Yingluck met with the US envoy and gave what could only have been a one sided version of events was a deliberate attempt to sway international opinion against Thailand and a direct attack on the country and the Thai people.

These comments will have been reported internationally and coming from a US envoy will be accepted as the truth, while they are only half truths at best.

The Shins care not that they will hurt the country and the people. It shows just how far these people are prepared to go in their own self interest.

Yes, "no doubt" i'm sure you have the inside line.

As you seem to have conveniently forgotten, or perhaps just wish to ignore......He met with Abhisit too.

[kblaze]

Being an american that lives here. I will have to say I am happy with the situation at present. Bangkok is not burning, No rioting.

I can get from point A to point B with out a detour. I drive around daily, and the military have been very helpful and friendly.

Politic's aside, because I know nothing about politic's in Thailand. Things seem NORMAL....

If things would get better in the south. Perfect.

So, I could care less what an american politician says. If it gets crazy again I may go back to America and find another retirement home..

"...because I know nothing about politic's in Thailand..."

Then why comment at all? All you have done now is make yourself look like a exploiting fool in the eyes of other Americans like myself ("find another retirement home").

You are happy Thais have now been stripped of a basic right that most in America hold dear? The right to publicly say "I don't like our leader".

But of course as long as you are comfortable who cares what happens to the natives, eh Gary?