DHAKA: Thailand is not retreating from democracy and seeks understanding from its economic and strategic partners while the country undergoes political reforms.

A top Thai official said on Sunday, reports The Straits Times.

Sihasak Phuangketkeow, Thailand’s permanent secretary for foreign affairs, was responding to criticism by US defence secretary Chuck Hagel who noted Thailand’s ‘retreat from democracy’ and announced that the Pentagon was suspending military assistance and engagements with Thailand.

‘We urge the Royal Thai Armed Forces to release those who have been detained, end restrictions on free expression, and move immediately to restore power to the people of Thailand, through free and fair elections,’ Hagel said on Saturday, on the second day of the ongoing Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore.

‘Until that happens, as US law requires, the Department of Defence is suspending and reconsidering US military assistance and engagements with Bangkok,’ Hagel said.

In a press conference here, Sihasak said he hoped the US would look at the relationship in the long-term.

‘Thailand is not going to disappear, it is the second-largest economy in Asean. We are an economic force to reckon with. We will continue our engagement with the international community. We hope our friends will take that fact into consideration.’

BDST: 1544 HRS, JUNE 01, 2014