India and Thailand to elevate ties to strategic partnership: PM Modi in Bangkok

Narendra Modi

Addressing a joint press conference in Bangkok, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said that India and Thailand will elevate its ties to strategic partnership.

Speaking on the deepening ties between the two nations, PM Modi said: "India and Thailand's centuries-old relations are connected through our deep cultural and spiritual ties. The spread of Buddhism has connected our people. From Ayutthaya to Nalanda, there has been an exchange of intellectuals. The tales of Ramayana are a part of Thai people's lives. "

Elaborating on the cultural linkages between the two nations, he emphasised that the influence of Sanskrit and Pali are reflected in language and traditions even today. "I am grateful to the Thailand government that during my visit, a commemorative stamp, based on Ramayana mural paintings from 18th century, was issued," stated the Prime Minister.

Highlighting India's Act East Policy, he said Thailand holds a special place in India's 'Act East' Policy and Indo-Pacific vision.

PM arrived in Bangkok on Thursday for a two-day visit to attend the sixth Bimstec (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) Summit. Hours after arrival, PM Modi held bilateral meeting with his Thai counterpart Paetongtarn Shinawatra in Bangkok, discussing a wide range of issues of bilateral cooperation.

The Bimstec Summit, themed “Prosperous, Resilient, and Open,” aims to enhance collaboration among member states—Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.