[QUESTION: (Via interpreter) A member of the Thai press has just asked, following your visit here to Thailand, there’s been a press report from Washington Post regarding the treatment of suspected terrorists by the CIA, and the presence of secret prisons in Thailand. And what would be your view on this and whether there has been an investigation of this matter?
SECRETARY CLINTON: Well, I do not comment on intelligence matters for obvious reasons. But I want to underscore the importance of my visit today to emphasize the very broad and deep relationship that we have with Thailand. It has been a very positive one, I think for both the Thai people and the American people. And I would only note that President Obama has made it very clear that his Administration and our country are committed to fulfilling the values and founding principles and high standards that the United States has consistently stood for.]
BP: So the "neither confirm nor deny" response. Not wanting to embarrass the hosts...
Posted from Diigo. The rest of my favorite links are here.
And Thailand has a vibrant but spicy democracy that the US has confidence in.
Embarrass the hosts?!?!! Have I missed something here? To my knowledge it's the Americans who tortured those people using their political, economic and diplomatic might over countries like Thailand. Who should be more guilty and ashamed?
Thailand has handled it badly, but I'm sick and tired of people blaming Thailand and the Thai media while ignoring the real issue, which is American hypocrisy pure and simple.
Eagle
One would think that the response that would get Thailand the most traction would be something like this:
"Yes, we assisted the United States with 'enhanced interrogation' because we are such close allies with them and because we feel strongly about the war on terror. At the time, we were informed by the U.S. that such techniques were legal and necessary."
That is, emphasize the cooperation (for China to hear) but blame any wrongdoings on the former U.S. administration--they can take it. Considering recent U.S. congressional hearings and media coverage about torture, it would hardly be a drop in the bucket.
Has Hillary had a talk with Krasit? I've seen her photos with Abhisit in the papers and now she's talking to Korbsak. WHere's Krasit?
Prach - The Nation is running the caption under a picture of Kasit following Clinton like a puppy. "US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Thai FM Kasit Piromya walk to their joint press conference after a bilateral meeting. Both ministers announced successful talks in which they agreed to work against terrorism and people smuggling. "
How can anyone take that seriously. Did Kasit pinkie promise Hillary never to be a terrorist again?