[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.