On 23 July 2014, H.E. Mr. Pitchayaphant Charnbhumidol, Ambassador of Thailand to Brazil, paid a courtesy call on H.E. Mr. Garibaldi Alves Filho, Minister of Social Welfare of Brazil.

 

         During the meeting, cooperation in the areas of trade, investment and tourism as well as social security’s policy between Thailand and Brazil was discussed. Ambassador Charnbhumidol expressed views that bilateral relations between the two countries have more rooms to expand and flourish as so much potential exists in the above-mentioned fields. 

 

         Ambassador Charnbhumidol also took the opportunity to explain about situation in Thailand that during the past 8 months before the military’s takeover, Thailand has been under increasing political turmoil. This prolonged political deadlock and the administrative paralysis have affected the stability and economy of Thailand. However, after the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) took control, the situation has returned to normal and peaceful. The NCPO has established Reconciliation Centers in both the central region and provinces. The provisional constitution has been promulgated. There would be an establishment of a Legislative Assembly, Interim Prime Minister and Cabinet as well as a drafting of new constitution and a National Reform Council. The Thai people have been satisfied with the NCPO’s overall performance. It was expected that a free and fair election under a democratic system would be held by October 2015. H.E. Mr. Garibaldi Alves Filho expressed understanding and wished Thailand to move forward as planned.

 

          H.E. Mr. Garibaldi Alves Filho, a member of the Brazilian Democratic Movement Party (PMDB), is a well-known Minister and Senator (RN). His political base is in Rio Grande do Norte. In 1986-1989, he was the Mayer of Natal. He served two terms as the Governor of the State of Rio Grande do Norte, representing the State of Rio Grande do Norte as a Senator for to terms (including this current term) and on 12 December 2007, he was elected President of the Senate and was in the position until 2007.