Narendra Modi, Thai PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra discuss 'Strategic Partnership'

Modi said his meeting with the PM was 'fruitful'.

"Had a very fruitful meeting with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra in Bangkok a short while ago," he posted on X.

Modi further said: " Expressed gratitude to the people and Government of Thailand for the warm welcome and also expressed solidarity with the people of Thailand in the aftermath of the earthquake a few days ago. India’s ‘Act East’ and Thailand’s ‘Act West Policies’ complement each other extremely well and open several possibilities for bilateral cooperation."

Modi said he discussed areas that included defence, security, maritime safety and hydrograph.

"Our talks focused on ways to deepen the India-Thailand Strategic Partnership. The sectors we discussed include strategic areas such as defence, security, maritime safety and hydrography. We also reiterated our commitment to working together to overcome the challenges of terrorism, money laundering and more," he said.

Warm Welcome

Modi was received with a warm welcome by the Indian community in Bangkok, Thailand where he is on a two-day tour to attend the sixth BIMSTEC Summit.

"Grateful for the warm welcome by the Indian community in Bangkok. India and Thailand share a deep-rooted cultural bond that continues to flourish through our people. Heartening to see this connection reflected so strongly here," the Prime Minister posted on X after reaching Bangkok.

In the initial hours of his tour, Modi attended a cultural event in the city.

He posted on X, "A cultural connect like no other! Witnessed a captivating performance of the Thai Ramayana, Ramakien. It was a truly enriching experience that beautifully showcased the shared cultural and civilisational ties between India and Thailand.

"The Ramayana truly continues to connect hearts and traditions across so many parts of Asia."

As per reports, Modi will join other BIMSTEC leaders from Thailand, Myanmar, Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan and Sri Lanka for the signing of the Agreement on Maritime Cooperation.

In his remarks ahead of departure for Thailand, which was rocked by an earthquake just days ago, Modi said, "Over the past decade, BIMSTEC has emerged as a significant forum for promoting regional development, connectivity and economic progress in the Bay of Bengal region.

"With its geographical location, India’s North Eastern region lies at the heart of BIMSTEC. I look forward to meeting the leaders of the BIMSTEC countries and engaging productively to further strengthen our collaboration with interest of our people in mind."