- May 4, 2021
- 3,295
| To: <Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade of the Commonwealth of Australia> Owen From: <Sarabun@mfa.mail.go.th> Subject: Clarification on Australia Concerns Security Type: Official Diplomatic Clarification | Public Access |
To the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Australia,
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Socialist Republic of Thailand presents its warmest regards to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade of the Commonwealth of Australia and appreciates the opportunity to clarify Thailand’s position on matters related to its policies concerning organized religions and the prospect of military intervention in Syria.
First and foremost, Thailand deeply values Australia’s diplomatic approach in expressing its concerns regarding policies that may appear at odds with existing international norms. This gesture reflects Australia’s steadfast commitment to fostering respectful and constructive dialogue, a principle that serves as the foundation of our shared pursuit of strengthening bilateral relations.
With respect to Thailand’s engagement with organized religious groups, it is essential to underscore that our policies are rooted in the directives of participatory democratic institutions, reflecting the will of our people. The current state of contention with certain organized religious entities, including Al-Qaeda, has its origins in a period marked by heightened global security concerns, particularly following terrorist incidents such as the London attacks. As a vibrant democracy, Thailand is uniquely responsive to public sentiment, which, while occasionally leading to swift decision-making, underscores the centrality of the people’s voice in governance.
That said, the Ministry acknowledges that the rhetoric employed in recent official communications may have been perceived as undiplomatic or alarming. We share the belief that diplomatic decorum must always be maintained. However, it is important to note that the language and tone of these statements were influenced by the collective sentiments of our citizenry, rather than unilateral government action. The Ministry further assures Australia that Thailand’s efforts in this regard are directed exclusively at addressing extremist ideologies and safeguarding national security. Organized religious institutions, such as the Church of England, remain tolerable by our people, provided they continue their commendable contributions to society.
Regarding the sensitive matter of potential Thai military intervention in Syria, we acknowledge the importance of regional consultation and strict adherence to international law. Thailand’s increased military readiness and production capabilities following recent statements reflect our government’s commitment to preparing for a range of scenarios; however, these measures are neither indicative of nor equivalent to a definitive decision to intervene.
Thailand respects the gravity of any such action and recognizes that it necessitates comprehensive deliberation and alignment with both democratic principles and international consensus. As a nation where ultimate authority resides with the people, any decision of this magnitude will be determined by the will of our citizens, who retain the right to evaluate the government’s interpretation of their mandate.
We invite Australia, as a trusted partner, to contribute its insights through Thailand’s participatory institutions, ensuring that its views and recommendations reach the Thai people directly. Constructive engagement will further enrich the decision-making process and fortify the foundation of our mutual respect and cooperation.
Best Regards,
Surin Pitsuwan
Director-General
Department of ASEAN, Oceania, and Pacific Affairs
Republic of Thailand
First and foremost, Thailand deeply values Australia’s diplomatic approach in expressing its concerns regarding policies that may appear at odds with existing international norms. This gesture reflects Australia’s steadfast commitment to fostering respectful and constructive dialogue, a principle that serves as the foundation of our shared pursuit of strengthening bilateral relations.
With respect to Thailand’s engagement with organized religious groups, it is essential to underscore that our policies are rooted in the directives of participatory democratic institutions, reflecting the will of our people. The current state of contention with certain organized religious entities, including Al-Qaeda, has its origins in a period marked by heightened global security concerns, particularly following terrorist incidents such as the London attacks. As a vibrant democracy, Thailand is uniquely responsive to public sentiment, which, while occasionally leading to swift decision-making, underscores the centrality of the people’s voice in governance.
That said, the Ministry acknowledges that the rhetoric employed in recent official communications may have been perceived as undiplomatic or alarming. We share the belief that diplomatic decorum must always be maintained. However, it is important to note that the language and tone of these statements were influenced by the collective sentiments of our citizenry, rather than unilateral government action. The Ministry further assures Australia that Thailand’s efforts in this regard are directed exclusively at addressing extremist ideologies and safeguarding national security. Organized religious institutions, such as the Church of England, remain tolerable by our people, provided they continue their commendable contributions to society.
Regarding the sensitive matter of potential Thai military intervention in Syria, we acknowledge the importance of regional consultation and strict adherence to international law. Thailand’s increased military readiness and production capabilities following recent statements reflect our government’s commitment to preparing for a range of scenarios; however, these measures are neither indicative of nor equivalent to a definitive decision to intervene.
Thailand respects the gravity of any such action and recognizes that it necessitates comprehensive deliberation and alignment with both democratic principles and international consensus. As a nation where ultimate authority resides with the people, any decision of this magnitude will be determined by the will of our citizens, who retain the right to evaluate the government’s interpretation of their mandate.
We invite Australia, as a trusted partner, to contribute its insights through Thailand’s participatory institutions, ensuring that its views and recommendations reach the Thai people directly. Constructive engagement will further enrich the decision-making process and fortify the foundation of our mutual respect and cooperation.
Best Regards,
Surin Pitsuwan
Director-General
Department of ASEAN, Oceania, and Pacific Affairs
Republic of Thailand
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