Clinton told of progress in South; Amity pact to be signed today

Visiting US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and all Asean foreign ministers today will sign the treaty in Phuket, reflecting the US government's intention to engage more deeply with the regional grouping.

During a meeting at Government House, Clinton said the US was concerned about reports of secret military cooperation between Burma and North Korea.

On Thailand's southern unrest, Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva told Clinton the government had made progress in resolving the issue.

Abhisit said Thailand had received good cooperation from neighbouring countries, especially Indonesia and Malaysia, in tackling the issue.

The premier also extended an invitation for US President Barack Obama to visit the Kingdom. Clinton said the US leader might make a stopover in Bangkok when he attends the summit of Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation leaders in Singapore in November.

On behalf of Foreign Minister Kasit Piromya, who is in Phuket for the Asean Ministerial Meeting, Korbsak pointed out in his welcoming address that Thailand and the US had been friends for 176 years.

"Our relationship has always been blessed with cordiality and understanding," Korbsak said, adding that despite the global economic downturn, Thailand remained attractive for foreign investment.

"The government is committed to the promotion and facilitation of foreign trade and investment and indeed stands ready to engage in consultations with the private sector," he added.

Korbsak also cited the Thai premier's stance on intellectual-property rights and the importance of the Generalised System of Preferences' tariff programme for Thai exports to the US.