1 March, 24: In a diplomatic shuffle, Thailand has opted to replace its ambassador to the World Trade Organization (WTO) following a protest lodged by India over remarks made regarding India's rice procurement program.
The outgoing Thai envoy to WTO, Pitfield, had sparked controversy by suggesting that India's rice procurement initiative was aimed at dominating the global export market rather than serving domestic needs. These remarks prompted a swift response from the Indian government, which declined to participate in scheduled meetings.
In response to India's protest and subsequent boycott, the Thai government swiftly took action, recalling Pitfield and initiating a replacement process. The decision to recall Pitfield was accompanied by an official statement from the Thai government, expressing regret over the ambassador's remarks and characterizing them as lacking in diplomatic etiquette.
The offensive language and tone employed by the outgoing ambassador were deemed inappropriate by Thai authorities, prompting the decision to recall her to Thailand.
The move underscores the importance of maintaining diplomatic decorum and fostering positive relations between nations, particularly within multilateral forums such as the WTO.
The replacement of the Thai ambassador to the WTO reflects a commitment to upholding diplomatic norms and ensuring constructive engagement among member states.
