Thailand's foreign minister says his country's policy of engagement with Burma is the best way to get the military government there to approve democratic reforms.
Kantathi Suphamongkhon made the remarks Thursday during a visit to Washington. He is expected to discuss the Burma situation and other regional issues in a meeting Friday with U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice.
Mr. Kantathi said he will not try to persuade the United States to abandon its hardline policy against Burma's military government. However, he said to isolate Burma would only hurt the Burmese people.
The Thai foreign minister said his country and the United States share the same goals of democratic reforms in Burma, and the release of pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi, who is under house arrest.
Information for this report is provided by AP.