Ask an average American about Thailand and about the only thing he'll be able to identify about it is sunny beaches and child rape. But even though most Americans don't care about this depraved, politically troubled nation, it is much more important than they realize. It's proximity to, and hostility towards China makes it a vital ally to american policy interests in the region, not to mention it is both economically and militarily important.
That's why it's nice to see that this turbulent country is starting to level out. Prime minister Abhisit Vejjajiva is forging ahead despite constant challenges to government authority from non-elected sources. Kavi Chongkittavorn gives Vejjajiva high marks in this opinion column from the nation. He's still traveling a dangerous road though, the police, the royal family and the army could band together at any second to throw him out of power, and disgraced former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra is still skulking around trying to foment revolution as well. This country's political history, both current and historically reads like a soap opera. I think it's an interesting read anyway, you should check out Chongkittavor's piece.
This guy seems like a stand up sorta guy for his country. Anyone that wants to end corruption and focus on the problems of his own country sounds like he might be doing the right thing. I hope he finds success and not strong opposition. I am rooting for him.
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