Pakistan and Thailand have urged the need to enhance bilateral cooperation in diverse fields, particularly in the areas of trade, investment and tourism for mutual benefit.
This was highlighted during a seminar on “Six Decades of Thailand-Pakistan Friendship: Towards Building a Strong Economic Partnership,” organized in close collaboration by the Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Pakistan’s Embassy in Bangkok.
The Seminar was part of the events celebrating the 60th anniversary of Pakistan-Thailand diplomatic relations. On this occasion, a special stamp marking the 50th anniversary of the State Visit of Their Majesties’ King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit to Pakistan was also issued.
Thailand’s Vice Foreign Minister Jullapong Nonsrichai delivered the opening statement, during which he highlighted the importance Thailand attaches to further deepening its relations with Pakistan as part of the “Look West” policy. He expressed the hope that bilateral relations will continue to expand in diverse fields in the years to come.
Pakistan’s Ambassador to Thailand Sohail Mahmood delivered a comprehensive statement on the “Future of Thailand-Pakistan Relations.” He inter alia underscored that both sides must build a substantive partnership, underpinned by a robust economic relationship, both on the bilateral and regional planes.
The central focus of the Seminar was on trade, investment and tourism cooperation.
Detailed presentations were made on Pakistan’s trade and FDI policies, experiences of doing business in Pakistan, and potential for tourism to Buddhist heritage sites in Pakistan dating back to the Gandhara period, including Taxila. A senior Buddhist monk, Venerable Dr. Anil Sakya, highlighted the religious significance of this shared heritage for the Thai people. Over 150 participants including senior Thai Government figures, members of the business community in both countries, and the media attended the Seminar. Thailand’s Trade Representative (TTR) Pichate Satrichaval (having a Ministerial rank) remained present throughout the seminar. As part of the proceedings, Thailand’s ICT Minister Anudith Nakornthap presided over the ceremony to formally launch the special stamp on the 50th anniversary of the Royal State to Pakistan (in 1962).
