Strengthening Bilateral Relations with Cultural and Strategic Ties
Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that India and Thailand would elevate their bilateral relationship to a strategic partnership, reinforcing their deep historical and economic ties. Speaking at a joint press conference in Bangkok on Thursday, PM Modi highlighted the strong cultural and spiritual links between the two nations, rooted in centuries of shared history.
“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,” PM Modi stated.
Further emphasizing the historical and linguistic connections, the Prime Minister noted the enduring influence of Sanskrit and Pali in Thai traditions. As a symbolic recognition of this shared heritage, Thailand issued a commemorative stamp featuring 18th-century Ramayana mural paintings during his visit.
Highlights of India-Thailand Bilateral Ties:
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Centuries-old cultural and spiritual connections through Buddhism and shared traditions.
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Influence of Sanskrit and Pali in Thai language and heritage.
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Commemorative stamp issued in recognition of India-Thailand cultural ties.
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Thailand’s role in India’s ‘Act East’ Policy and Indo-Pacific strategy.
PM Modi’s Visit for the Bimstec Summit and Bilateral Talks
PM Modi arrived in Bangkok on Thursday for a two-day visit, primarily to attend the sixth Bimstec (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) Summit. The summit, themed “Prosperous, Resilient, and Open,” aims to enhance collaboration among member states, which include Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.
Following his arrival, PM Modi held a bilateral meeting with Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, where they discussed a wide range of issues, focusing on strengthening economic ties, regional security, and connectivity projects.
Developments from PM Modi’s Visit:
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Bilateral meeting with Thai PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra to enhance cooperation.
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Participation in the Bimstec Summit, focusing on regional prosperity and resilience.
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Discussions on Indo-Pacific strategy, with Thailand playing a crucial role.
Thailand’s Role in India’s Act East Policy and Indo-Pacific Vision
PM Modi reiterated that Thailand holds a special position in India’s Act East Policy, which aims to strengthen engagement with Southeast Asia. He emphasized the importance of Thailand in India’s Indo-Pacific vision, particularly in bolstering maritime security, trade, and connectivity.
Both nations are expected to explore new avenues for economic cooperation, infrastructure development, and defense collaboration under the strategic partnership framework.
Strategic and Economic Highlights:
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Strengthened trade and investment ties between India and Thailand.
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Enhanced maritime security and regional cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.
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Focus on connectivity projects, including road and port infrastructure.
With this significant diplomatic upgrade, India and Thailand are set to deepen their economic, cultural, and strategic collaboration, reinforcing their position as key partners in the region.