Bipartisan Resolution Recognizes Anniversary of First U.S./Thailand Treaty

Washington, D.C. –  Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata,  together with sponsor Rep.Michelle Steel (R-CA) and six other cosponsors, took part Friday in introducing a bipartisan resolution honoring the 190th anniversary of the historic first agreement signed between the United States and Thailand, the 1833 Treaty of Amity and Commerce. The treaty was the first between the United States and any Asian country. 

“It’s wonderful to celebrate the longest partnership between the United States and an Asian country, as this 190-year successful trade relationship with Thailand provides an enduring example of mutually beneficial U.S. partnerships throughout the entire vast region connected by the Pacific Ocean,” said Congresswoman Aumua Amata.

“This historic treaty represents the U.S.’ first agreement with not only Thailand, but any Asian country,” said Congresswoman Steel. “Since its establishment, the relationship and cooperation between our two nations has thrived, providing benefit to both of our economies and national security. This bipartisan resolution reaffirms our gratitude for our partnership and our continued commitment to building our friendship.”

The bipartisan Resolution is sponsored and cosponsored by four Republicans and four Democrats. In addition to Rep. Steel, the original cosponsors are Representatives Aumua Amata Coleman Radewagen (American Samoa-At Large), Jill Tokuda (D-HI), Brad Sherman (D-CA), Jay Obernolte (R-CA), John Carter (R-TX), Ed Case (D-HI), and Scott Peters (D-CA).

More than 300,000 people of Thai descent live in the United States. Southern California is home to one of the largest Thai populations outside of Thailand, with roughly 100,000 Thais in the region, according to the Thai Community Development Center in Los Angeles, CA.

Thailand is a valued trading partner of the United States, with bilateral trade totaling approximately $74 billion per year. Thailand investment in the United States has continued to increase and currently totals over $11 billion. 

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