An Analysis On Thailand-U.S Relationship After "9.11"

The paper analyzes the changes and development of Thailand-U.S relationship after "9.11", with an emphasis on the factors that influence ties between the two countries. The paper also provides a prediction of future Thailand-U.S relation.As an old Asian ally of United States, Thailand signed Thailand-U.S. Agreement on Military Aid and Thailand-U.S. Agreement on Economic and Technical Aid and allied militarily with United States in 1950. After "9.11", Thailand has become an important counter-terrorism force to U.S. To further consolidate bilateral partnership, the two countries initiated negotiations on a free trade agreement. Both Thailand and United States strive for better relations and cooperate extensively in military, political and economic fields. In addition to the annual Cobra Gold Military Exercises, the two countries have increased exchanges in anti-terrorism, intelligence and military training after "9.11". In terms of economic relation, the two parties launched negotiations of free trade agreement in 2004. Despite the ever-postponed date for further negotiations caused by bilateral trade disputes and the political turmoil in Thailand, United States remains one of the most important trading partners of Thailand and is of great significance to Thai economic development. Furthermore, political visits between the two countries have increased and cooperation has been conducted in wide-ranging areas from environment protection, narcotics fighting to education and health care. Although constant adjustment and improvement are made according to international situation and respective domestic policies, Thailand and United States have enjoyed stable and smooth relationship for a long time.In spite of the overall close bilateral relationship, volatility always exists. With Thai political situation unstable and a declining U.S global influence, the two countries are confronted with challenges in the way ahead.