NEW DELHI: India and Thailand upgraded their relationship to a strategic partnership, and announced a strategic dialogue between the security agencies, as PM Narendra Modi held bilateral talks with his counterpart Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Modi backed “Asean unity” and “Asean centrality”, saying that in the Indo-Pacific region, both countries advocate a free, open, inclusive and rule-based order.
“Asean is the comprehensive strategic partner of India, and in this region, as neighbouring maritime countries, we have shared interests in regional peace, stability, and prosperity… we believe in development and not expansionism,” said the PM, alluding to the threat that several Asean States feel from increasing Chinese assertiveness in South China Sea.
India and Thailand signed five MoUs, including one between ministry of development of North Eastern region (MDoNER) and Thailand foreign ministry. Modi said the countries emphasised on cooperation in the fields of tourism, culture and education between Thailand and India’s northeastern states.
While talking about security ties, Modi thanked Thailand for the cooperation in facilitating the return of Indian victims of cybercrime. “We have agreed that our agencies will collaborate closely to combat human trafficking and illegal migration,” said Modi, adding that Thailand held a special place in India’s Act East Policy and its Indo-Pacific vision.
The leaders discussed growing mutual trade, investment and business exchanges, appreciating agreements signed to foster cooperation in the areas of MSME, handloom and handicrafts.
“We have decided to strengthen cooperation in renewable energy, digital technology, e-vehicles, robotics, space, bio-technology and startups. In addition to enhancing physical connectivity, both the countries will work to boost FinTech connectivity,” said Modi, adding that with the aim of promoting people-to-people exchanges, India has started offering free e-visa facilities to Thai tourists.