Thai ambassador, recently named president of UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC), said his election demonstrates Thailand's positive international profile and increase of its visibility on the world stage.
Sihasak Phuangketkeow, presently permanent representative of Thailand to the UN in Geneva, told Thai News Agency that Thailand needed to be clear and stand firm on its stance on some issues it had previously avoided.
The UNHRC is an inter-governmental body within the United Nations system, comprising 47 nations responsible for providing humanitarian assistance, while strengthening the promotion and protection of human rights around the world.
Sihasak was the only candidate nominated from Asia and won the votes of 41 countries.
Describing his election as an international recognition of Thailand, Sihasak said Thailand must perform as head of UNHRC by being based on justice, which may not satisfy all parties concerned.
"All countries are watching us. I believe if we can perform well in this world community, positive feedback will return to us, which will help us in terms of bilateral ties with other nations," Sihasak said in Geneva.
He said he had been considering withdrawing his candidacy if Thailand's recent political unrest had not eased. But once he was elected for this new position despite the country's political chaos, he became positive other countries were confident on Thailand, particularly on a human rights issue.
"Before I was elected, I had tried to explain to the meetings of our transparency in dealing with previous political situations. The clarification satisfied all countries, and that was one of the reasons they voted for us, for they saw our readiness, transparency and clear explanation," said Sihasak.
The new UNHRC head wants to strengthen the Council's role, and said his goal would be achieved by assistance of Thailand's firm position at the international level.