Bush says to continue strong ties with Thailand

WASHINGTON, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President George W. Bush told new Thai Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat Wednesday that the United States will continue its close cooperation with Thailand, the White House said.

In a telephone conversation with Somchai, Bush congratulated him on taking office, U.S. National Security Council spokesman Gordon Johndroe told reporters.

"The president said the United States looks forward to working with the prime minister and his new government and to continuing strong ties with Thailand," Johndroe said in a brief statement.

Thailand's new Cabinet led by Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat were sworn in on Sept. 25.

The United States and Thailand have forged close ties since World War Two. Thailand has received U.S. military equipment, essential supplies, training, and assistance in the construction and improvement of facilities and installations for much of the period since 1950.

The United States is Thailand's second largest trading partner after Japan