While respecting the opinion of Pavin Chachavalpongpun as expressed in the article titled "Thailand playing a risky game with China, Russia" in the June 7 edition, I would like to provide the following facts.
Regarding Thailand's political situation, even though Thailand is still in transition and many complex challenges remain, we are committed to addressing these political problems through strengthening our democracy, fostering reconciliation and reforms, as well as tackling major economic challenges and reducing disparities in the society. Our goal is to become a strong and sustainable democracy, and we are making good progress towards this goal.
On human rights, Thailand is fully committed to the promotion and protection of human rights of the people. We have always fully engaged in international human rights discourse, including the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) process. At the second cycle review earlier this year, 181 recommendations were accepted and many more are under consideration, and we are determined to implement the recommendations which we have accepted.
Regarding Thailand's foreign policy, this should be looked at in a holistic manner, taking into consideration the current regional landscape whereby many players are becoming more engaged in the Asian region. The Thai government pursues an independent foreign policy and seeks friendly engagement with all our long-standing friends and potential partners on the basis of mutual trust, mutual respect and mutual benefit, be they China, Russia, United States or Japan.
The opinions expressed in this letter to the editor are the writer's own and do not necessarily reflect the policies of The Japan Times.