ENA Global 2025-04-04 14:35:11 <p><span style="font-size:14px"><strong>New Delhi, Apr 4 (KNN)</strong> India and Thailand have officially upgraded their bilateral relations to a Strategic Partnership, signaling a stronger commitment to regional cooperation and shared development goals.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">Prime Minister Narendra Modi made this announcement after extensive discussions with his Thai counterpart, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, in Bangkok on Thursday.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">Modi emphasised the deep cultural and historical ties between the two nations and reaffirmed their commitment to a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific. He highlighted that both countries believe in a policy of development over expansionism.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">The leaders agreed to enhance collaboration in trade, tourism, culture, and education, particularly strengthening ties between Indias northeastern states and Thailand.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">Several agreements were signed to promote cooperation in Micro, Small &amp; Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), handloom, and handicrafts.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">Additionally, discussions were held on initiating a strategic dialogue between security agencies of both countries, reinforcing India's Act East Policy and Indo-Pacific vision.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">Acknowledging ASEAN's unity and centrality, Modi stressed India's support for the region's stability and prosperity. He expressed gratitude to Thailand for issuing a special postage stamp featuring the 18th-century Ramayana mural paintings.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">In a gesture of cultural significance, Prime Minister Shinawatra presented Modi with the Tripitaka, which he accepted with reverence.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">During his visit, Modi also met former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, discussing ways to deepen cooperation in defense, trade, and cultural exchange. Modi praised Thaksins long-standing friendship with India and his contribution to strengthening bilateral ties.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">The visit also coincides with the 6th BIMSTEC Summit, where Modi will join leaders from Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Myanmar, and Bhutan to sign a crucial Agreement on Maritime Cooperation. His next destination is Sri Lanka, marking a significant diplomatic engagement in South Asia.</span></p> <p><em><strong><span style="font-size:14px">(KNN Bureau)</span></strong></em></p> 41639 https://knnindia.co.in/news/newsdetails/global/india-and-thailand-agreements-on-trade-covers-msmes-handloom-and-handicrafts 2025-04-04 14:35:11 knnindia.co.in