Japan wants to send a strong signal to Thailand and the world community that no matter what happens in the Kingdom, the country remains one of its most important strategic partners in the region. Tokyo is also confident of Thailand's democratic development. Surayud's trip and its success can be attributed to Japan's unwavering support of Thailand in times of dire need, both in term of political support and fresh investment.

There are other reasons as well. One of the most important is the ongoing excellent relationship between the Thai monarchy and the Japanese imperial family. Their mutual friendship and support were strengthened further when Japanese emperor and empress visited Thailand last June to take part the commemoration of the 60th anniversary of His Majesty the King's accession to the throne, making him the world's longest-reigning king. These special relations have weathered all storms and served as a strong foundation for the betterment of bilateral relations between their two countries. Members of the two royal families have also frequently exchanged visits.

Surayud's visit to Tokyo also demonstrated the importance Thailand attaches to Japan. The signing of the Japan-Thailand Economic Partnership Agreement is a good case in point. The current government was determined to go ahead with the free-trade agreement, knowing full well that it would benefit the Thai economy and help create jobs and other opportunities. Before the signing of the pact, both sides worked closely together to overcome common hurdles and ensure that there was a balance of give and take. Public concerns related to the environment and the possibility of Japanese toxic materials being shipped to Thailand were taken care of. Both sides must continue to educate the public about the nature of the economic partnership agreement. Any negative consequence from this landmark pact must be addressed without delay.

Looking back over the past three decades, Thailand has struggled to gain access to Japan's huge and rich market. From times to time, trade and investment issues have flared up and been politicised, but the good relations between the two countries survived. In this respect, compensation and other remedial measures must be assured. They are imperative to maintaining long-term relations. At this juncture and in the future, Thailand and Japan can ill afford to have any hiccups in their cooperation.

That leads us to the next point regarding Thai-Japanese strategic cooperation. Former prime minister Chatichai Choonhavan knew the importance of Japan's strategic value. The two countries initiated maritime cooperation at that time, but the idea was far ahead of its time. Nowadays maritime security and cooperation, both at bilateral and multilateral levels, are on the top of the agenda for the region. This is an area in which Thailand and Japan can lead the way.

Finally, the two countries are celebrating their 120 years of relations with year-long events in Thailand and Japan. Some of these commemorative activities and ideas should be continued even after this year, otherwise the momentum of building bilateral relations could be lost. Programmes related to youth, cultural and language exchanges and training should continue and intensify beyond the celebrations. After all, the relationship needs this kind of enthusiasm and vigour. After all, Thailand and Japan are both democracies, even though in the case of Thailand some fixing still needs be done. The two countries can inspire each other, and the rest of the region.