THAILAND, INDIA ELEVATE TIES TO STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP

By Kenny Teng Khoon Hock

BANGKOK, April 4 (Bernama) -- Thailand and India have officially elevated their bilateral relations to a strategic partnership, paving the way for enhanced diplomatic and economic cooperation. 

Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra warmly received Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday, marking the start of his two-day official visit to Thailand.

Government Spokesperson Jirayu Huangsap announced that both nations have elevated their relationship to a strategic partnership — a significant move that underscores the enduring strength and growing dynamism of Thai-Indian ties.

"This partnership also underscores their commitment to fostering strategic cooperation for mutual growth, progress, and prosperity at both bilateral and regional levels," he said in a statement on Thursday.

Jirayu added that both leaders also witnessed the signing of several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) covering cooperation in digital and information technology, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), development, education, and culture - reaffirming their shared commitment to delivering tangible outcomes under the new strategic partnership.

The Thai leader, Jirayu added, highlighted that Modi’s visit and the elevation of bilateral ties to a strategic partnership not only reinforced the enduring friendship between Thailand and India but also marked a significant milestone in advancing their cooperation.

Modi, at the invitation of Paetongtarn, is also scheduled to attend the 6th Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) Summit on Friday, which Thailand will host.

Meanwhile, Jirayu said Modi had expressed his gratitude to the Thai government for its warm hospitality. He also extended his condolences to the victims of the recent earthquake in Myanmar.

The Indian Prime Minister also emphasised the strong cultural and religious ties between the two countries, particularly the influence of Buddhism and their shared traditions.

"Modi also highlighted cooperation in the areas of economy, trade, technology, and security, noting that India has introduced visa-free entry for Thai nationals and is working with Thailand to combat transnational crime," Jirayu said.

He added that both countries reaffirmed their shared commitment to maintaining a free, open, inclusive, and rules-based Indo-Pacific region.

-- BERNAMA