Welcoming notes

"I think that the fact that it could go back to the Parliament, the fact that a constitutional process works, the fact that they have fought it out very intensely and now there is a decision collectively made on one person, is good. It's proof of the strength of the system of democracy itself."

Asean Secretary-General Surin Pitsuwan.

"We are happy, as the turnout of events produced what we expected - that is, the election of a new prime minister with a very clear majority. Looking at his background, I believe the new prime minister will have the acumen and fortitude to lead."

Malaysian Foreign Minister Rais Yatin, speaking from Jakarta, where he was meeting with Southeast Asian foreign ministers.

"We hope that the new government of Thailand will soon stabilise the situation and concentrate on national development. Vietnam expects to continue its cooperation with the government of Thailand."

Vietnamese Foreign Ministry spokesman Le Dung.

"The new government is likely to restore investor confidence, among both local and foreign investors, as well as consumer confidence at a certain level. Such confidence can increase further if we clearly see its economic policy and its economic team work ... to speed up spending and investment to boost the economy."

Santi Vilassakdanont, chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries.

"The urgent task for the new government is bringing about political reconciliation, at least to a certain level, so the government will be able to perform its job. Next, it must speed up restoring the Thai economy, which is likely to face difficulties next year."

Pramon Suthiwong, chairman of Thailand's Board of Trade.