Maris prepares for an India vacation.
PUBLISHED: 3 Nov 2024 at 05: 13
Thailand aims to collaborate with South Asian nations on food, power, and individual security, according to Foreign Affairs Minister Maris Sangiampongsa on Saturday, in order to increase business with the Southeast.
After meeting with Thai ministers and ministers based in the area during his Friday visit to India, Mr. Maris emphasised the strategic significance of South Asia.
He said the region is home to almost two billion occupants, about a third of the world’s population, and serves as a crucial connection of land and sea connection, making it a focal point of geopolitical and economic attention.
He stated that because Thailand is a key player in South and Southeast Asia, the country collaborates closely with South Asian nations through the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation ( Bimstec) and Association of Southeast Asian Nations ( Asean ) Plus Three ), with each region having a population of around two billion people.
The chancellor also praised the potential of Thailand to relieve trade tensions between Central Asia and South Asia, including countries like Tajikistan and Kazakhstan, both of which are connected to Europe.
Mr Maris noted that India, with its long-standing political relations with Thailand, is Thailand’s most important partner in South Asia.
He claimed that he met Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, the foreign minister of India, on Saturday to talk about several issues, including prospective cooperation to promote sustainable regional development.
Mr Maris said this agreement is piece of Thailand’s tactical plan, especially under Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s management, which seeks to strengthen relationships with emerging markets.
He also highlighted the importance of Bangladesh, a country with great potential but now facing economic and political challenges, and Sri Lanka, another vital partner that shares social ties with Thailand, especially in Buddhism, trade and investment.
In contrast, he said he has directed Thai officials in the region to prioritise a people-centred international policy, focusing on three main columns.
Mr Maris said the first pillar is food safety, the next revolves around strength protection, and the fourth relates to human safety.
He added that the meeting may also include possible military and defense partnerships and opportunities for mutual training exercises with India, Pakistan, and other South Asian nations.
The secretary also underscored the importance of hospitality and cultural exchange, including health hospitality, which can utilize Thailand’s strategic area for the good of the business, growth and jobs.