Although planned in the final months of the Obama administration, Mr Harris' visit to Thailand will be a crucial marker for the Trump administration. He will be the most significant US government official to visit Thailand since the 2014 coup. Adm Harris' visit comes at a delicate -- but potentially promising -- moment. Equipment modernisation is a key priority for Thai military and civilian leadership. President Trump is a businessman: and he's made it clear he is not opposed to trade per se, and is willing to move ahead with bilateral deals.

Source: Bangkok Post February 09, 2017 21:48 UTC