Asian editorial excerpts

TOKYO, April 7 Kyodo

Selected editorial excerpts from the Asia-Pacific press:

THAI-JAPANESE TIES ON FIRMER GROUND (The Nation, Bangkok)

Thailand and Japan's future relations are on a firmer foundation following the recent visit of Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont to that country. His delegation received red carpet treatment rare in such circumstances...It was the most the Japanese government could do to accommodate the Thai government and its leader, who were installed by the military following the coup on September 19 last year.

Japan wants to send a strong signal to Thailand and the world community that no matter what happens in the Kingdom, the country remains one of its most important strategic partners in the region...Surayud's trip and its success can be attributed to Japan's unwavering support of Thailand in times of dire need, both in term of political support and fresh investment.

There are other reasons as well. One of the most important is the ongoing excellent relationship between the Thai monarchy and the Japanese imperial family.

Surayud's visit to Tokyo also demonstrated the importance Thailand attaches to Japan. The signing of the Japan-Thailand Economic Partnership Agreement is a good case in point...Before the signing of the pact, both sides worked closely together to overcome common hurdles and ensure that there was a balance of give and take. Public concerns related to the environment and the possibility of Japanese toxic materials being shipped to Thailand were taken care of. Both sides must continue to educate the public about the nature of the economic partnership agreement. Any negative consequence from this landmark pact must be addressed without delay.

Looking back over the past three decades, Thailand has struggled to gain access to Japan's huge and rich market. From times to time, trade and investment issues have flared up and been politicized, but the good relations between the two countries survived. In this respect, compensation and other remedial measures must be assured.

Former prime minister Chatichai Choonhavan knew the importance of Japan's strategic value. The two countries initiated maritime cooperation at that time, but the idea was far ahead of its time. Nowadays maritime security and cooperation, both at bilateral and multilateral levels, are on the top of the agenda for the region. This is an area in which Thailand and Japan can lead the way.

Finally, the two countries are celebrating their 120 years of relations with year-long events in Thailand and Japan. Some of these commemorative activities and ideas should be continued even after this year, otherwise the momentum of building bilateral relations could be lost. Programs related to youth, cultural and language exchanges and training should continue and intensify beyond the celebrations. After all, the relationship needs this kind of enthusiasm and vigor. After all, Thailand and Japan are both democracies, even though in the case of Thailand some fixing still needs be done. The two countries can inspire each other, and the rest of the region.

(April 7)

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