Thailand (catch all)

[Bill Moore]

David,

Since its Thailand there is no guarantee those are actually women. Long time travelers to Thailand will understand.

[JMA]

David,

Since its Thailand there is no guarantee those are actually women. Long time travelers to Thailand will understand.

Yes, got look out for the Adam's apple... which those necklaces seem to cunningly hide.

[Bill Moore]

http://www.nationmultimedia.com/opin...-30235269.html

To John Kerry: America needs a better understanding of Thailand

A core principle in Thai culture is "face". The issue of face in Thai culture is not amenable to reason. It may be hard to comprehend this in the West, but to us here, it became perfectly clear that for both opposing sides, face had become a higher priority than the fate of their nation.

I believe that the General did the one thing that could allow the opposing camps to retreat without losing face. He chose between incurring the wrath of the international community and saving his country from a civil war. The minute he made this decision, he started to work on a credible plan to return Thailand to a state of a functioning elective democracy.

I do not ask that America refrain from condemning this coup. Indeed, I myself do not approve of coups, and I applaud America for making its fundamental stance immediately public. Nor do I ask that America reconsider the suspension of aid, or other sanctions. These things are necessary because we need a deterrent, should the General not be true to his word, or should other, more power-hungry individuals seek to hijack the process.

What I ask is that you seek out, digest and act on a complete, detailed briefing about the situation on the ground. I ask that the power and influence of the United States be used in a way that helps Thailand in its journey towards a more enlightened governance. I ask that you work through diplomats who understand what is going on the ground, to become as well informed as possible, and (behind the scenes if necessary) you attempt to facilitate, rather than obstruct the future of this country.

Highlights are mine