US President Barack Obama has gently chided Thailand at the US-Asean summit in California by repeating a call for civilian rule while pledging to work with Asean.
Speaking to the media after the US-Asean summit ended at Sunnylands, Mr Obama said the US will continue to work with Asean countries who are working to advance good governance, accountable institutions and human rights.
He also touched on political issues in Thailand and Myanmar, saying the US supports Thailand restoring democracy with civilian rule and will give moral support to the people of Myanmar in the crucial period of selecting their new leader and moving towards reconciliation.
"We continue to encourage a return to civilian rule in Thailand. We will sustain our engagement with the people of Myanmar as a new president is selected," he said.
The US emphasised people's rights and freedoms across the region, the US president said, especially those who want to express their opinions.
"No one, including those in political opposition, should ever be detained or imprisoned simply for speaking their mind," he said without specifying a particular country.
Mr Obama also praised the meeting as a success, saying he and his Asean counterparts discussed and shared ideas over regional issues, particularly security, trade and investment where he expects more opportunities.
Regarding terrorism, Mr Obama offered assistance to help Asean countries with Interpol data to prevent the flow of terrorist fighters and vowed to deal with transnational challenges with Asean.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha called on Asean countries to step up border screening as part of measures to combat human trafficking and terrorism.
Speaking after the three sessions at the summit yesterday, Gen Prayut said the talks also touched on cooperation to deal with terrorism.
Thailand is a convenient location for people passing through the region and, as a result, stringent checks must be carried out along the border, he said.
Following the formation of the Asean Community, more people are expected to pass through Asean countries and increased efforts should be made to deter illegal entry. The measures include the purchase of equipment to help screen people at the border, he said.
According to the premier, Thailand has stepped up efforts to thwart the use of counterfeit passports and weed out human traffickers who use the country as their base.
He insisted those who committed offences in Thailand must be dealt with in accordance with Thai laws, though there are some problems regarding differences in Thai law and the laws of other nations.
"They [foreign offenders] must be prosecuted in line with Thai immigration laws," said Gen Prayut.
"Those wanted under an overseas summonses or arrest warrants will be extradited once their nationalities are verified," he added.
The prime minister insisted that illegal immigrants cannot be sent on to the country of their choice as this would be exploited by human traffickers.
During the second session, entitled "Protecting Peace, Prosperity and Security in the Asia Pacific", Gen Prayut said Thailand is committed to cooperating with Asean and the US in dealing with transnational challenges, according to deputy government spokesman Werachon Sukondhapatipak.
The spokesman said Gen Prayut stressed that efforts to tackle human trafficking are on the national agenda.
Laws must be toughened and offenders, particularly the major players, and officials involved must face prosecution, he said.
Efforts will be made to improve the country's compliance with Asean accords involving the fight against human trafficking.
Gen Prayut is due to arrive back in Thailand today.