WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senators Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Bob Menendez (D-NJ) and Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) issued the following statement on the military coup in Thailand. Senator Cardin is Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on East Asian and Pacific Affairs, Senator Menendez is Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and Senator Leahy is Chairman of the Appropriations Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations and Related programs.
“We are deeply disappointed by the coup carried out by the Royal Thai army, which removed Thailand’s democratically elected government. This action, along with the imposition of martial law, restrictions on the press and freedom of assembly, and the suspension of the Constitution, will damage our bilateral relationship. We urge all sides to adhere to democratic principles, engage in a sincere and meaningful dialogue, and find a peaceful way forward,” the Senators said.
“The people of the United States and Thailand have been friends and allies for many years, and we value the role Thailand plays in the region. We urge an immediate return to civilian rule and a restoration of all human rights, including freedom of the press.”
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