General Prayuth Chan-ocha, head of Thailand's National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO), has given an explanation of the country's situation to the international community, saying that the council has made efforts in creating a better understanding through every possible channel.

The explanation came after the European Union (EU) had expressed its concern over the situation in Thailand and considered revising cooperation with the country as part of its call for general elections at the earliest opportunity.

General Prayuth said that the NCPO understands the demands of the EU. However, he said, holding an election under the present circumstances will only lead the country back to a cycle of conflict, continued rampant corruption among those holding political power, exposure to potential terrorism, and the use of weapons between conflicting groups.

He said he believes that most Thai people understand these problems and do not want the country to face such a situation. They, therefore, have called on the NCPO to push ahead with solutions to these problems.

The council stressed the need for reform as soon as possible to make Thailand become a fully functioning democracy before elections. It fully hopes that the EU will understand the situation, as most Thais do.

The NCPO has met and talked to foreign businesspeople from the EU, as well as the United States . Their trade and investment relations with Thailand have continued.

Concerning the credibility of Thailand , General Prayuth said that the NCPO will try its best to address the issue as quickly as possible. On June 23, 2014, the Security Chief of the council invited the US Ambassador to Thailand to discuss and exchange views on the current situation. The ambassador was informed of the roadmap of the NCPO and was satisfied that Thailand has clear directions.-VNA