Bangkok: The Prime Minister engaged in discussions with the Indian Ambassador to advance trade and investment opportunities between the two nations. His Excellency Mr. Nagesh Singh, Ambassador of the Republic of India to Thailand, paid a farewell courtesy call on Prime Minister and Minister of Home Affairs Anutin Charnvirakul as his term concluded.

According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Ratchada Thanadirek, Spokesperson for the Prime Minister, outlined the discussions, beginning with bilateral relations. The Prime Minister extended his gratitude to Prime Minister Modi for his congratulatory message and praised the Indian Ambassador for strengthening Thailand-India relations. The Thai government expressed readiness to support the new Indian Ambassador in further enhancing bilateral cooperation.

The Indian Ambassador expressed appreciation for the support received from the Thai government and congratulated the Prime Minister on his election victory. He invited the Prime Minister to visit India officially, expressing optimism about future relations under the Prime Minister's leadership.

The discussion also covered trade and investment potential, emphasizing the opportunity to expand cooperation in agricultural production and processing, given India's large consumer market and Thailand's agricultural strengths. Both countries agreed to increase bilateral trade and explore new sectors for cooperation.

Tourism was another key topic, with both parties noting the robust exchange of tourists. Thailand anticipates welcoming over 2.48 million Indian tourists by 2025, highlighting the importance of people-to-people connections for economic growth. The Indian Ambassador mentioned the popularity of Thailand among Indian travelers, suggesting a review of flight agreements to accommodate rising demand due to the situation in the Middle East.

Energy management amidst Middle Eastern conflicts was also discussed, with the Prime Minister affirming that Thailand is managing the situation and focusing on securing oil reserves and promoting biofuels. The Indian Ambassador thanked Thailand for assisting in the repatriation of Indian nationals and noted joint efforts to prevent recidivism among repeat offenders.