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Published on March 21, 2008

Was that true?

Providing help is a friendly gesture a troubled friend would appreciate, no matter when that assistance was given.

It also highlights just how far back Thai-US relations extend: 175 years as of yesterday.

To mark the anniversary, Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej and US Ambassador Eric John planted trees together.

Samak also attended a luncheon hosted by the American Chamber of Commerce.

Notably, the celebration occurred at a time when there are several thorny issues between the countries.

Assistant US Trade Representative Barbara Weisel was in Bangkok to discuss Thailand's efforts to protect US intellectual property. Her focus is on the controversial issue of compulsory licensing of life-saving drugs and the upcoming revision of Thailand's trade status.

In his speech to American businessmen, Samak admitted: "Intellectual property rights have for some time been an issue that clouds our otherwise firm partnership."

The Bush administration has made the protection of intellectual property the focus of its trade agenda. The US increased its scrutiny of Thailand's practices after the country authorised companies to make low-cost, generic versions of three patented medicines, including two Aids drugs owned by Merck and Abbott Laboratories.

Certainly, disputes could hurt Thailand's trade and investment. Now, the US is Thailand's second-largest foreign direct investor after Japan. According to Amcham, more than 600 member companies have invested US$21 billion (Bt655 billion) in the Kingdom.

Last year, a planned free-trade agreement was abolished following the coup. Thailand now hopes to have a wider market share in the US through an agreement the US aims to conclude with Asean.

Given the great importance of the US to Thailand, Samak pledged to do everything to woo more investment.

He told American businessmen that Thailand has cut taxes and returned to democracy. The investment climate is better.

Many could ask why we need to be soft on the US if we have walked the same path for 175 years. Come on, it is like a relationship between two brothers.

It is unlikely they would be equal throughout their lives. Once in a while, any relationship will take a rocky course. Soon, our brother may appreciate our part during the Katrina crisis and return a favour.

Achara Deboonme

achara_d@nationgroup.com