India’s ‘Act East’ finds synergy with Thailand’s ‘Act West’ policy: Jaishankar

External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar on Monday said that India’s ‘Act East’ Policy has found a natural complement in Thailand’s ‘Act West’ Policy.

In his opening remarks during a meeting with Thailand’s Foreign Minister, Sihasak Phuangketkeow, in New Delhi, Jaishankar said, “India and Thailand have historically shared close and friendly ties. We value Thailand as a long-time friend, apart from being an important maritime neighbour.”

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He noted that bilateral relations were elevated to a strategic partnership during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Bangkok in April for the BIMSTEC Summit and his subsequent official engagements.

Several agreements in the fields of handloom and handicrafts, digital technologies, MSMEs, and maritime heritage were signed during the visit, Jaishankar added.

“So, in that background, given the rapidly evolving geopolitical and geo-economic environment that impacts both of us, we believe that regular exchanges of views on pressing issues are very useful. I think we have many common interests, including in our region. I particularly look forward to a deep discussion on the situation in Myanmar during your stay,” he said.

Earlier, the External Affairs Minister extended a warm welcome to Sihasak Phuangketkeow and the visiting delegation. He recalled their meeting on the sidelines of the ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur and also offered condolences on the passing of Thailand’s Queen Mother, Queen Sirikit.