By J. Berkshire Miller
Thailand’s lack of preparedness for floods in Bangkok frustrated Japan. But both countries have too much to lose to let ties stay sour.
Earlier this month, Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatratraveled to Japan with a full delegation, aiming to repair ties with the world’s third-largest economy. After the visit, both sides released a joint statement declaring an enhanced strategic partnership in the economic and security realms. Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda affirmed that his government views Thailand as a “key country in Southeast Asia,” and underlined that its “development and stability are important for Japan’s national interests.” Thailand, which depends heavily on investment from Tokyo (nearly a third of Thailand’s total direct foreign investment comes from Japan) emphasized the importance of bilateral ties.
So why the damage repair exercise? After all, relations between Thailand and Japan have been strong for decades, built upon close economic ties and a historical alliance on security matters. There are also cordial exchanges between the royal families in both countries, with a relationship that had until late last year remained robust since the two families agreed to be allied together during World War II. However, much of this diplomatic capital was eroded when a series of floods left Bangkok paralyzed, destroying a significant amount of property, including that of Japanese manufacturers.
Read the full 2 page story at The Diplomat