Special Report: Singapore and China, key pieces to Thailand
The Prime Minister’s recent visits to Singapore and China were concluded with great success, with positive feedback from both countries. The trips were especially important as China and Singapore are key players in the Asian region’s economy and play an important role in reviving Thailand’s economy.
The PM’s official visit to Singapore took place on June 22, while his visit to the People’s Republic of China spanned from June 24 to 27. Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva attended to duties during the visits both in his capacity as the leader of the Thai Government and as the ASEAN Chairman, strengthening ties and projecting a positive image of Thailand and ASEAN.
Singapore geographically is closely tied to Thailand as it is located in the same Southeast Asian region. This proximity creates unified aspirations for both nations through the development of ASEAN. Thailand and Singapore were also the founding members of ASEAN over four decades ago. The Thai PM spent most of his visit to Singapore tackling pressing issues of the association including matters of trade, investment, education and the development of human resources. Talks were held on support for initiatives that would entail cooperation throughout the association as well as the reduction of barriers within the region. It can be said that the ties between Thailand and Singapore are the driving forces behind ASEAN.
China, despite being non-ASEAN still plays a major role on the association and the region, especially in terms of the economy and trade. Following the world economic meltdown and continued uncertainty, China has become the new beacon of hope for world finances; a role that the nation has accepted wholeheartedly. Asia’s largest country played a key part in establishing the Asian Monetary Fund that joined the forces of Japan, South Korea and ASEAN.
Ultimately, both Singapore and China are major factors in the direct and indirect redemption of the Thai economy, making it the duty of the Government to forge strong ties with them and pave the way for increased trade and investment.
http://thainews.prd.go.th/en/news.php?id=255206270042
