Worrisome development
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The situation in Thailand is disturbing: the over two-month long crisis has escalated into armed clashes since last week instead of showing signs of abating.
With the Thai government continuing its crackdown on the anti-government "red shirts", there is fear that the violence may spiral out of control, causing further damage to the country's economy. The crisis has already claimed many lives, mainly as a result of clashes between the army and the protesters. This is a worrisome development.
The chaos is also turning away tourists and foreign investors. According to the country's tourism department, the number of foreign tourists plummeted by 30 percent last month.
Thailand relies heavily on its tourism industry to shore up the national economy. If the current situation spreads across the nation, it would adversely impact the domestic economy and affect regional economic recovery.
The country's Asian neighbors, China included, are anxiously watching the situation unfold.
On May 15, China's Foreign Ministry again expressed its grave concerns regarding the continued unrest. As a neighbor with friendly ties, China sincerely hopes the current standoff can be resolved peacefully, and that the country can soon get back on its feet.
The lesson from Thailand is that Western-style democracy may not necessarily work in Asia, as Asian societies do not mirror Western societies.
It is hoped that the belligerent parties in Thailand will exercise great restraint and bridge their political divide in the true spirit of national integrity. After all, any political pursuit would be meaningless if the country falls apart at the seams.
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