The new US ambassador to Thailand has pledged to move forward with all aspects of existing bilateral cooperation but reaffirmed a call for democracy to be restored as soon as possible under the roadmap.
Speaking after a courtesy call on Foreign Minister Don Pramudwinai Thursday, Glyn Davies said a number of matters were discussed, including the restoration of democracy in Thailand. He said the US is trying to find ways to further strengthen the relationship between the two countries which has lasted for more than 180 years.
"We [the US] hope Thailand will continue to rapidly restore democracy and an elected civilian government," Mr Davies said.
"The relationship between the United States of America and the Kingdom of Thailand is a vital one. It is important. It means a great deal to us," he added. The US ambassador also said he had a "very good conversation" and discussed a wide range of topics with Mr Don including climate change, security cooperation, public health, trade, irregular immigration and youth exchange programmes.
"We worked together on everything from global heath issues, eradication of diseases, the security relationship and environmental issues," Mr Davies said.
Mr Davies also said the US government will continue to work with Thailand to address human trafficking problems and illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing practices.
The US State Department recently decided to keep Thailand at the lowest rank in its annual Trafficking in Persons report, saying the country had not demonstrated significant progress in tackling the problem.
"The nature of our relationship has changed, as the world has changed, but the essentials of the relationship remain very much the same, which is that we are allies," he said.
When asked if he will pay a courtesy call on Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, Mr Davies said he is ready to meet Gen Prayut at any time. "Of course I plan to meet the prime minister. When his schedule permits, I will be ready to have a conversation with him," he said.
Meanwhile, Mr Don insisted the government is working to bring back democracy under the roadmap and he explained to the US ambassador that it is the government's main goal.
"I told Mr Davies that important processes -- constitution drafting and national reforms -- are under way and he understood. We cannot let our country go back in the same circle. Reforming the country is essential," he said.
New US ambassador to Thailand Glyn Davies and Foreign Minister Don Pramudwinai shake hands during the courtesy call at the Foreign Ministry.