New PM to explain political change to foreign leaders

BANGKOK, Oct 7 (TNA) - Deputy Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs Sihasak Phuangketkeow said he believed that Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont will have no difficulty explaining the recent political change in Thailand to foreign leaders.

Mr. Sihasak met with Gen. Pongthep Thesprateep, the Prime Minister's Secretary-General-designate on Friday to discuss preparations for three upcoming regional meetings that Gen. Surayud will attend.

The prime minister will attend the ASEAN-China leaders' summit scheduled to be held October 29-31 in China. All ASEAN leaders are expected to attend since this year marks the 15th anniversary of official ties between the regional grouping and China.

Gen. Surayud will also attend the summit meeting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation or APEC to be held in Vietnam November 15-19, and the ASEAN leaders summit taking place in the Philippines December 11-13.

These regional forums present opportunities for Gen. Surayud to explain recent political developments since September 19 putsch to regional and foreign leaders.

TNA