181. Setting the Stage for the Next 175 Years: United States and Thai Relations Renewed
- Author:
- Eric G. John
- Publication Date:
- 04-2009
- Content Type:
- Journal Article
- Institution:
- Council of American Ambassadors
- Abstract:
- While everyone in the world now knows the name Obama, perhaps only about 65 million people are familiar with “Obamark.” Like many Thais, Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva has a nickname, Mark, given to him by his parents. After Barack Obama won the democratic nomination, Abhisit's supporters in Thailand began calling their man Obamark to draw attention to the perceived similarities between the two men: both are young, highly educated, well-spoken politicians who each promised their countries change. And as fate would have it, both men have assumed the mantle of leadership at the same time: Abhisit was endorsed by the King of Thailand and became Prime Minister on December 17, 2008, only a few weeks after Barack Obama won the election to become President of the United States.
- Topic:
- International Relations
- Political Geography:
- United States and Thailand