<P> Thailand and the U.S. are both former Southeast Asia Treaty Organization (SEATO) members, being close partners throughout the Cold War, and are still close allies . Since 2003, the U.S. has designated Thailand as a Major Non-NATO Ally . </P> <P> United States involved in Vietnam War in 1955 to 1975 . In 1995, President Bill Clinton announced the formal normalization of diplomatic relations with Vietnam . Today, the U.S. eyes Vietnam as a potential strategic ally in Southeast Asia . </P> <P> American relations with Eastern Europe are influenced by the legacy of the Cold War . Since the collapse of the Soviet Union, former Communist - bloc states in Europe have gradually transitioned to democracy and capitalism . Many have also joined the European Union and NATO, strengthening economic ties with the broader Western world and gaining the military protection of the United States via the North Atlantic Treaty . </P> <P> The UN Security Council divided on the question of Kosovo's declaration of independence . Kosovo declared its independence on February 17, 2008, whilst Serbia objected that Kosovo is part of its territory . Of the five members with veto power in the UN Security Council, the US, UK, and France recognized the declaration of independence, and China has expressed concern, while Russia considers it illegal . "In its declaration of independence, Kosovo committed itself to the highest standards of democracy, including freedom and tolerance and justice for citizens of all ethnic backgrounds", President George W. Bush said on February 19, 2008 . </P>

Why is diplomacy a key part of us foreign policy