    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2008, Book I)]
    [March 19, 2008]
    [Page 398]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the 175th Anniversary of Thailand-United States Relations
    March 19, 2008

        Laura and I join in celebrating the 175th
    anniversary of relations between the United States of America and the
    Kingdom of Thailand. The United States and Thailand have long been
    linked by bonds of trust, appreciation, and friendship. The Treaty of
    Amity and Commerce, signed on March 20, 1833, solidified our commitment
    to working together for mutual benefit and marked the first agreement of
    its kind between the United States and an Asian nation. Over the past
    175 years, our two governments have worked together on issues such as
    economic development, health care, and security. Today, we share a
    commitment to democracy and to free and fair trade, as well as a respect
    for human rights. Our tradition of cooperation and support remains
    strong.
        I thank His Majesty the King and the
    citizens of Thailand for our enduring partnership. This anniversary is
    an opportunity to underscore our shared ideal of liberty and reinforce
    our bonds of friendship and understanding. We are proud to celebrate
    this historic day.

    Note: The statement referred to King Phumiphon Adunyadet of Thailand.