Brown moves to defend U.S. consortium in disputed contract for Thai airport

Article Abstract:

US Commerce Sec. Ron Brown has sent a letter to Thai authorities expressing concern over Thailand's treatment of a US consortium trying to win a contract for the design of the country's planned new international airport. In his letter, Brown also noted the apparent lack of openness and transparency in the contract bidding process and stated that this could discourage other US firms from investing in Thailand. The letter has prompted Thai officials to take extra efforts to assure the US that the bidding process will be fair and according to established procedure. Observers believe that Brown's open support for the consortium reflects the Clinton administration's shift towards aggressive advocacy of US business interests.

Officials and employees, Foreign operations, Corporations, Records and correspondence, United States. Department of Commerce, Brown, Ronald H.

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Bangkok proposes West 'recycle' funds

Article Abstract:

Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister Supachai Panitchapakdi urged Europe and the US to recycle tens of billions of dollars of funds back to Asia to offset excess outflow of funds, and curb the advance of the Asian crisis to the West. The baht has plunged roughly 52% against the dollar since the country allowed the currency to float freely on Jul 2, 1997. Under Supachai's proposal, the recyling of funds would take place via the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank and national export-import banks.

Europe, International aspects, Panitchapakdi, Supachai

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Bangkok officials will seek revisions to IMF package

Article Abstract:

Thailand's Finance Minister Tarrin Nimmanahaeminda will call for revisions to an International Monetary Fund (IMF) rescue deal in light of the mounting protests by senior Thai officials that the US has abandoned Thailand in its time of need. The US did not directly contribute to the IMF's $17.2 bil emergency loan package for Thailand. On the other hand, the US loaned billions to Indonesia and South Korea. Many Thais feel slighted by the apparent disregard of the US government.

International Affairs, Bilateral Diplomacy, International Monetary Fund, Political aspects, Diplomacy

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