Bliken last year postponed a trip in order to Thailand, the earliest US ally within Asia, after halting a regional trip when a COVID-19 case was found in the particular press corps accompanying him.
The Biden administration has sought to shore up connections with a region that will had become unsure about US commitment during a period of perceived neglect under Biden’s predecessor, Donald Trump. At that time, China extended its influence while pushing investment and trade integration.
“We have also laid the foundation for the next 190 years, ” the Thai international minister said, because the two countries get ready to mark 190 years of relations the coming year.
Talks along with Prayut will include the crisis in Myanmar and expanding cooperation, the State Department said.
Myanmar’s military has increased pressure towards ethnic minority soldires since a hen house last year and is experiencing resistance on several fronts, including militia groups allied using the ousted government.
Earlier on Sunday, Blinken met Myanmar youth leaders in the Thailänder capital, Bangkok.
After Thailand, he will make a previously unscheduled stop in Tokyo to provide condolences to the Japan people after the killing of former Excellent Minister Shinzo Abe, the State Department mentioned.