The United States is committed to supporting Thailand during its delicate phase following last month's election, with the goal of helping to establish an effective, stable,

and democratic government, according to Kurt Campbell, the top US official for the Indo-Pacific region. Speaking at the Hudson Institute think tank, Campbell emphasized the significance of this phase in the government formation process.

In the recent election, the opposition Move Forward and Pheu Thai parties emerged as dominant forces, dealing a significant blow to conservative parties supported by a royalist military that has held control since a coup in 2014. The next step involves the formation of a coalition government with the participation of six other parties. However, prime ministerial candidate Pita Limjaroenrat faces challenges in gaining support from the unelected, conservative-leaning Senate for a legislative vote on the prime minister, which is expected to take place by August.

Despite attempts to disqualify Pita over a stock ownership issue, he remains confident that he has not violated any rules and believes his rivals are determined to prevent him from assuming the top position.

The United States aims to strengthen its ties with allies and partners in Asia as it counters the expanding influence of China. Campbell expressed the desire to maintain a robust bilateral relationship with Thailand, which has been the US's oldest treaty ally in the region. He highlighted the existing investments of American companies in Thailand and the strong military programs and engagements with the Thai armed forces.

Acknowledging the complexity and instability of Thailand's politics, Campbell stressed the US goal of supporting the establishment of an effective, stable, and democratic government in Thailand. This would enable constructive collaboration and cooperation between the two nations. Photo by Xiengyod, Wikimedia commons.