Thailand new FM espouses Asian values

Thailand's new government has outlined its foreign policy which emphasises the Asian values of non-confrontation and face saving.

The foreign minister, Surakiart Sathirathai, said that following the Asian way would not mean that Thailand would not respect human rights or democracy.

He said he would visit Vietnam, Malaysia and China in his first overseas trip.

Correspondents say Mr Surakiart's comments signal a shift in Thailand's foreign policy; the government of former Prime Minister Chuan Leekpai had upset other Southeast Asian countries with its vocal support for democracy and human rights in Asia.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service