Thailand adheres to strenthen democracy: Chulanont

Bangkok, Sep 7 (UNI) Thailand is adhering to the timetable for restoration of a popularly elected government, military-appointed Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont told US business leaders at the APEC summit in Australia today.

''A year ago I promised you that Thailand would adhere to the timeline prescribed by our Interim Constitution which mapped out our path towards a new constitution and strengthened democratic credentials. I am pleased to report to you that we have been able to honour that promise,''he said.

The Thai Prime Minister was addressing the US-APEC Business Coalition at the APEC Business Summit in Sydney, where leaders of the member countries of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum had met.

He pointed out that the August 19 national referendum on the country's new constitution drafted by a panel appointed by the leaders of last year's coup d'etat was approved by about 57 per cent voters.

''It wasn't the best outcome we had hoped for, but the most important message from the referendum is that the Thai people want to move on with their lives,'' he added, according to a press release here by the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The approval of the draft constitution has paved the way for the parliamentary elections announced for December 23 this year.

''The democratic spirit and aspiration of Thailand have not been derailed. Thailand is returning to a strengthened democracy,'' Mr Surayud said.

UNI