Parnpree to bring Thailand back on radar screen amid superpower rivalry

As it tries to find its way back on the radar screen of international diplomacy, Thailand needs to strike a fine balance in its relationship with the world’s two superpower rivals, according to Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara said.

Parnpree said Thailand cannot afford to be seen as siding with one country or the other.

“We are friends with both countries,” the foreign minister said of the US and China which have engaged in geopolitical and trade rivalry over the years.

In an interview with Thai PBS over the weekend, Parnpree said Thailand’s close relations with US and China are based on different issues.

“But our stand is that we must not be seen as siding with one or the other,” said Parnpree.

He admitted that keeping a balance in its dealing with the two superpowers is a major challenge for Thailand which he said is trying to have a more visible role on the…