Thai government clarifies PM's remarks

BANGKOK, February 12 (TNA) - The Thai government has clarified Prime Minister General Prayut Chan-ocha's recent reference to a coup d'etat, which concerns the United States. In response to US Department of State Spokesperson Jen Psaki's recent statement on Washington's concern over Thai Prime Minister General Prayut's reference to a coup in an interview during his official visit to Japan earlier this week, Deputy Government Spokesman Major General Sansern Kaewkamnerd told journalists on Thursday the Thai prime minister meant that a coup happened when a normal political system came to a dead end and all Thai people are duty-bound to take good care of the country and participate in national reform towards true democracy to prevent past incidents from recurring. The deputy spokesman stressed that the Thai prime minister did not imply that a coup was possible in the future. The deputy spokesman insisted that the Thai government maintain friendship with the United States and other countries and adheres to the principle of co-existence with the global community and there will not, thus, be adherence to any particular country. Besides, relations and businesses with foreign countries must prioritize Thailand's national interest, but the stance and movements of the United States are understood as Washington must express as a country adhering to democracy. Regarding rumors that former female Thai prime minister Yingluck Shinawatra plans to seek a political asylum, the deputy spokesman said the government found that Yingluck rested at home and made no movements. The deputy spokesman explained that Yingluck faces criminal and civil lawsuits, not a political one, and the Thai government does not discriminate against any particular party, as cases of Yingluck's opponents have been brought to justice too. (TNA)