Thai, Indian ministers hold key talks in Delhi

THAI Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa held talks with Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar in New Delhi during an official visit yesterday (July 12) which covered political, defence and security, trade and investment, physical and financial connectivity, tourism and people to people domains.

In a social media post, Jaishankar said that as maritime neighbours, both countries have civilisational bonds and shared interests. He added that they also exchanged views on regional matters, India-Asean, Indo-Pacific and cooperation in the United Nation.

The Thai Foreign Minister stressed on how Thailand could play an important role as a link between South Asia and Southeast Asia, including transportation links and information sharing to jointly resolve regional issues.

Both sides had a constructive discussion to strengthen relations in all levels and enhance comprehensive cooperation, especially the elevation of Thailand-India relations to a Strategic Partnership, which signifies the close ties in all dimensions. They also discussed cooperation areas that both sides could jointly promote, such as defence industry, security, promotion of young entrepreneurs, investment promotion in Thailand and Thailand’s landbridge project, as well as tourist facilitation including through visa-free measures.

In addition, both sides also exchanged views on political issues of mutual interest under regional cooperation, especially Bimstec of which Thailand will be hosting the summit this September.

CAPTION:

Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa and Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar during their meeting in New Delhi yesterday (July 12).