3. Thai-Chinese Relations
Among the ASEAN countries, Thailand has felt most comfortable with China, though not entirely without apprehension. Unlike Malaysia and Indonesia, ethnic Chinese are relatively well integrated in the Thai society. There is no standing border or other disputes between the two countries. After the Cold War was over, Thailand sees itself as a bridge for broader and deeper engagement between ASEAN and China. Two previous Prime Ministers, Banham Silapa-archa and Gen Chavalit Yongchaiyudh chose to visit China as soon as they came to power to highlight Thailand's special relations with Beijing. Especially Chavalit, with his close personal ties with Chinese military leaders, had made no qualms about Thailand's ambition in tapping the power of "Greater China."
The current administration under Chuan has been more discreet. Since Thailand became the recipient of China's financial assistance packages both in the fields of defense and current US$1 billion aid-package through the IMF programme, the relations have been strengthened. In February 1999, Thailand signed a comprehensive framework of cooperation with China, first of its kind for an ASEAN state. The Joint Statement of the Kingdom of Thailand and People's Republic of China on the Plan of Action for the 21st Century covers a full range of the bilateral relations, including economic, financial, defense and security, agricultural, science and technology as well as cooperation in commercial maritime and Mekong Basin.
From the Beijing's perspective, Thailand is a trusted friend. Key Chinese leaders have repeatedly praised its role in promoting China's ties with ASEAN. Thailand is however aware of the sensitivity of the other ASEAN countries towards China and has been careful not to let its relations with China overshadow its support for ASEAN solidarity.
4. Thailand's Political Development and Stability
Since 1992 there have been a growing acceptance of the civilian control over the military. The party system is diverse. No party has won a majority. The major parties that received the most votes in recent election include Chuan's Democrat Party and Gen Chavalit's New Aspiration Party. There have been criticisms over Chuan's financial recovery package. If he has to call an election before the end of his term, Democrat may still be able to stay in power, the Democrat Party would continue to dominate in elections as it has the biggest team of economic experts as other parties do not seem to be able to come up with a credible team to revive the country's economy. Another hopeful may be the telecom tycoon Taksin Shinnawat who has established his own party since the recent financial crisis. Gen Chavalit would have little chance of a come-back as he had lost credibility for his inability to tackle the economic problem.
