Obama to visit Thailand Nov 18-19

BANGKOK - US President Barack Obama will pay an official visit to Thailand on Nov 18-19, the Thai Foreign Ministry said in a press release Wednesday.

Thailand will be President Obama's first stop in his trip to the region after his re-election on Nov 6, the press release said.

During the trip, the president will be granted an audience with Thailand's King Bhumibol on Nov 18.

Moreover, the president will meet with Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra to discuss various issues, including strengthening the Thai-US alliance based on diplomatic relations which will witness their 180th anniversary next year.

The meeting between the two leaders will be followed by a dinner in honor of the president hosted by Thai premier at the Government House.

President Obama will be accompanied on this visit by Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.