BANGKOK, June 24 — The Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs wants the European Union (EU) to review its moves against Thailand, even as an EU representative says that the pressures will not affect the pending free trade agreement between the EU and Thailand.
Late this morning acting Thai foreign minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow held a press conference after meeting EU ambassador to Thailand Jesus Miguel Sanz.
The meeting concerned the EU’s condemnation of the May 22 military takeover in Thailand and pressures for the restoration of democracy.
Mr Sihasak said that he expressed disappointment with the EU’s suspension of its senior officials visits to Thailand and delay of the signing of the cooperation agreement with the country.
The EU paid no attention to improving situations in Thailand and its move to restore democracy, he said.
Thailand disagreed with the EU’s unilateral response and he said Thailand is trying to have discussions to create understanding.
The EU should understand the situation in Thailand, he said.
Regarding the EU’s postponement of signing its Partnership and Cooperation Agreement with Thailand, Mr Sihasak said the EU should consider mutual interest and international relations.
Ambassador Jesus Miguel Sanz said the EU’s reactions were not a boycott and its trade, investment and tourism relations as well as free trade negotiations with Thailand would continue as usual.
The EU still recognized Thailand’s significance and important role in ASEAN and the matter would not affect the ASEAN-EU Ministerial Meeting next month, he said.
