On 17 October 2006, Mr. Matthew Daley, Chairman of the US-ASEAN Business Council paid a coutersy call on Mr. Nitya Pibulsonggram, Foreign Minister, on the occasion of his visit to Thailand to attend the seminar with US companies doing business in Thailand. Both sides exchanged views on issues of bilateral relations.  Gists of which are as follows:

1. Mr. Daley congratulated Mr. Nitya on his appointment as Foreign Minister.

2. Foreign Minister reiterated  that the Government of Thailand will adhere to the principle of Constitutional Monarchy and that the Government has laid down its timeline to proceed with the democracy reform under the principles of just and transparency.

3. Mr. Nitya expressed hope that friendly countries of Thailand, US in particular, should make "distinction" about the situation in Thailand and not jump into conclusion.  It remains to be seen of the intention of the Government of Thailand on its process to democratic reform for the benefit of the Thai people.

4. Mr.Nitya reaffirmed the continuity of Thai foreign policy by stressing that Thailand will continue to foster ties and cooperation with neighbouring countries including developing countries in order to help them develop their economic potential for the benefit of the region as a whole. The ACMECS cooperation is the case in point.

5. Mr. Daley informed Foreign Minister that US investors and businessmen in Thailand are not affected by the political situation in the country and are still doing business as usual. He also admitted that the new government consists of Ministers who have extensive knowledge and experience and have international credibility.

6. Foreign Minister hoped that USABC will convey the information about the situation in Thailand to the US side so as to have a correct understanding and confidence in the Thai government' s policy.