Thailand has so far received positive feedback from several Latin American and East Asian countries over its choice of new premier, the Foreign Ministry's permanent secretary Sihasak Phuangketkeow said yesterday
But he admitted questions still remain over the next political step under the three-phase road map to restore democracy,
Mr Sihasak did not disclose the names of any of the countries that voiced their approval of Gen Prayuth Chan-ocha as prime minister.
Mr Sihasak, who is also acting foreign minister, said after talks with senior officials at the Forum for East Asia-Latin America Cooperation (FEALAC), that he was unofficially asked by participants about the next step after junta chief Gen Prayuth becomes the 29th premier.
"The procedures I mentioned will be another step on our road map that will lead the country to an election under democracy," Mr Sihasak said.
"They acknowledged that politics is our internal affair, so they pay attention to the economy, our diplomatic role and foreign policy, especially our leading role in Asean. Thailand is seen as a bridge to other regions. It is a significant factor for them," Mr Sihasak added.
The foreign permanent secretary yesterday chaired the 15th FEALAC's senior official meeting, aiming to boost cooperation on trade and investment between the two regions.
As well as talks under the FEALAC framework, another 35 member countries could see that the current political situation in Thailand is stable and the nation is ready to engage with other countries like before, according to Mr Sihasak.
Mr Sihasak also claimed that feedback from the international community, including Western countries, about how Thailand plans to achieve its democratic aims, has improved.
"After visiting several countries, they recognised our political plan and expected to see a process toward democracy in which all groups can participate," he said.
When asked about the quick selection of the new premier on Thursday, the Foreign Ministry chief official said the speed of the choice showed that the correct person was chosen under the current situation. He said Gen Prayuth is expected to take some trips abroad to introduce himself after taking power, starting with Asean countries.