Thailand in Focus

Finally, I would say that a new democratic society in Thailand has also to be founded on sound economic policies. The one thing Thailand has been able to show the world is that, despite all the political changes and instability in the past, the foundation of our economic philosophy which is the belief in the open economy and also the belief in market forces and the role of market sector has enable us to weather so many financial and economic storms, and has enabled us to remain resilient in the face of economic or financial crisis even while we go through politically difficult times.? That means that it would be a pity if we were to forget this and go down the wrong path in terms of sustaining the progress that we achieved economically especially during the last three or four decades.? I know we need to back all these up also with other policies and measures that would support a strong democratic society -- innovation, vision and of course, most important of all as I always say, process of education -- and not just formal education but lifelong learning where people need to learn the skills and values that would make them good democratic citizens.

That?s the vision that we have set out for the post-crisis democratic Thailand.? You may think that the gap between what you see and the picture that I just described may be too big.? But I think having this vision provides the most effective and clear guideline of what my government and may be my successor would need to do to make sure that we achieve a stronger, more stable and democratic system for the country.

I believe that here you may take some of these things, these values, for granted.? But in many economies, countries and young democracies around the world the people and the politicians still need to go through this learning process.? I believe that if these values are appreciated, we will be able to embark on a path, may be long, may be tough, but will surely lead us to where we want to go.? Future is not tomorrow.? The Future is in today and yesterday.?? And I am determined to work with all my people in the country to achieve what I have just described as the new democratic society of Thailand.

Thank you for your attention and I will be happy to answer questions and share views and comments with all of you.

Thank you very much.