US calls for peaceful resolution to crisis in Thailand

Deutsche Presse Agentur
Published: Tuesday September 19, 2006

Washington- The United States on Tuesday called on the Thai people to peacefully resolve the political crisis that erupted in the country after the military staged a coup against Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. "We look to the Thai people to resolve their political differences in a peaceful manner and in accord with the principles of democracy," said Curtis K Cooper, a US State Department spokesman.

"We are monitoring the situation closely. This is a difficult moment for Thailand. We stand with the Thai people as they address the issues before them," he said.

News of the coup broke in the United States as US President George W Bush was to address the UN General Assembly in New York. US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice left the United Nations immediately after Bush's speech, returning to her hotel to follow developments in Bangkok.

Tanks rolled out into Bangkok's streets as Thaksin was also in New York to mark the opening session of the General Assembly.

The United States and Thailand are close allies.

© 2006 DPA - Deutsche Presse-Agenteur