Thailand will "push democracy forward," says Foreign Minister

Jul 5, 2010, 15:55 GMT

Berlin - Thailand Foreign Minister Kasit Piromya told his German counterpart Guido Westerwelle on Monday that his country was determined to strengthen democracy, after political unrest claimed several lives earlier this year.

Speaking in Berlin, Piromya said he wished to reassure Germany 'of our firm intention and determination to push democracy forward, to push the rule of law, to have good governance and transparency.'

'We still need the encouragement, support and advice of our German friends,' the Thai minister added.

Piromya also updated Westerwelle on the progress of a five-point plan for national reconciliation, which he hoped would lead to a referendum on changes to the constitution and fresh elections by early 2011.

'Germany supports the Thai government on its path to a lasting solution to the crisis,' Westerwelle told his Thai counterpart, adding, 'The five-point plan presented by the prime minister is a good basis.'

The ministers also discussed Thailand's economic stimulus package, aimed at making the country's economy more competitive and increasing its knowledge-based sector.

Piromya said Thailand was committed to good governance, honouring intellectual property rights and stamping out malpractice, 'to ensure that the German business community wants to come to Thailand.'

He also congratulated the 'remarkable achievements' of Germany's football team, which is due to play Spain on Wednesday in the quarter finals of the World Cup in South Africa.