Following the decision of the Thai Cabinet on 2 December 2008 to postpone the 14th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits to March 2009, there have been expressions of understanding from ASEAN Member States of this decision, and in this context, suggestions by some to re-schedule the Summits to an earlier date.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to reaffirm Thailand’s readiness, as ASEAN Chair, to convene the 14th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits in Thailand, and its flexibility to convene the Summits at the earliest dates as soon as a new government is able to perform fully its duties.
In this connection, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs expresses its hope that the Thai Parliament would expedite the approval of outcome documents that will be signed or adopted at the 14th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits at the earliest opportunity during the next session of Parliament. The consideration of these documents had originally been scheduled for 8-9 December 2008 but has since been postponed. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs further pleads with all parties concerned in Thailand to work together so that the Royal Thai Government can perform fully its duties as Chair of the 14th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits as well as fulfill other tasks as ASEAN Chair until the completion of the term of chairmanship at the end of 2009, in order to uphold and promote Thailand’s honour and prestige within ASEAN and the international community.
Prime Minister at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Press Division, Department of Information Tel.(02) 643-5170
Fax. (02) 643-5169 E-mail : div0704@mfa.go.th End.