Congressional critics also doubt whether a trade deal will be negotiated with Thailand if the current government of Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra pursues a reckless policy in several areas. Some members of Congress have criticized Thaksin`s close relationship with neighboring Burma`s military dictatorship. Thaksin has been internationally condemned by the United Nations and other human rights institutions, governments and observers for continued action against drugs that has killed up to 3,000 people. Thaksin has also been criticized for consolidating a significant portion of the media under his control. Overview of the U.S.-Thailand Free Trade Agreement The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative has begun negotiations with Thailand for a bilateral free trade and investment agreement, the prospects for which are already highly controversial in both countries. The deal could also face strong opposition in Thailand due to its potential effects on Thai sovereignty, including the possible restructuring of Thai law, which has traditionally limited foreign ownership. Thai companies that profit from “pirated” U.S. products like CDs, DVDs, and software will lose under the deal that the U.S. …