US halts trade talks with Thailand
VOV correspondent in Thailand -
(VOVWORLD) -The US had sent a diplomatic note on suspending bilateral tariff talks with Thailand pending Thailand’s return to the Thai-Cambodian Joint Declaration, Thai Foreign Ministry said at a press conference on Saturday in Bangkok.
 Thai foreign ministry spokesperson Nikorndej Balankura (Photo: Thailand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs) |
A representative of the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Thailand has repeatedly emphasized that the issue of security and safety, especially related to the bilateral relationship between Thailand and Cambodia, should not be linked to the trade talks between Thailand and the US.
The Thai government continues to pursue a policy of expanding economic cooperation opportunities through negotiating free trade agreements (FTAs), seeking new markets and participating in international economic cooperation frameworks to maintain and strengthen competitiveness globally, he said.
He added Thailand recognizes the constructive role of the US in supporting Thailand and Cambodia in de-escalating tensions. Thailand will advance ahead based firmly on their national interests and commitment towards a sustainable peace.
Thailand and Cambodia signed a peace declaration on the sidelines of the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, witnessed by Prime Minister of Malaysia Anwar Ibrahim and US President Donald Trump. However, on November 11, the Thai National Security Council decided to suspend this document after four Thai soldiers were injured by stepping on a landmine while patrolling in Sisaket province on November 10.
VOV correspondent in Thailand