PM Modi Holds Talks With Thai Counterpart Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Elevates Bilateral Ties | Top Updates – News18

Last Updated:April 03, 2025, 16:28 IST

Upon his visit, PM Modi received a warm welcome in Bangkok with members of the Sikh community performing Bhangra at Don Mueang airport.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday held talks with Thai PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra in Bangkok. The discussion came hours after he reached Bangkok on Thursday to attend the 6th BIMSTEC Summit, which will take place in the evening.

Prime Minister Modi was warmly received by his Thai counterpart at the Government House in Bangkok as the two leaders exchanged several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUS) and made their remarks to the press.

Thailand issued a special stamp featuring Ramayan mural paintings from the 18th century on the occasion of Prime Minister Modi’s visit. The Indian leader was also presented with ‘The World Tipitaka: Sajjhaya Phonetic Edition” by his Thai counterpart.

The Tipitaka (in Pali) or Tripitaka (in Sanskrit) is a revered compilation of Lord Buddha’s teachings, consisting of 108 volumes and regarded as the principal Buddhist scripture. The presentation of the Tipitaka to PM Modi is a testament to India’s spiritual leadership and its enduring bond with Buddhist nations.

PM Modi Expresses Condolences For Earthquake Victims

In his remarks to the media, Prime Minister Modi started by expressing his deep condolences to the victims of a devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake that left a trail of destruction in Myanmar and Thailand.

“On behalf of the people of India, I express deep sympathies for the loss of lives in the earthquake that hit on 28th March. We pray for the speedy recovery of those who were injured,” he said.

PM Modi expressed gratitude to Thai leader Shinawatra and the people for the warm welcome and hospitality, and emphasised that the centuries-old relations between India and Thailand are linked by deep cultural and spiritual bonds.

“The spread of Buddhism has connected our people. From Ayutthaya to Nalanda, there has been an exchange of intellectuals. The tales of Ramayana are a part of Thai people’s lives. The influence of Sanskrit and Pali are reflected in language and traditions even today. I am grateful to the Thailand government that during my visit, a commemorative stamp, based on Ramayana mural paintings from 18th century, was issued,” he added.

India-Thailand Ties Elevated To Strategic Partnership

PM Modi further said that India and Thailand have decided to enhance cooperation in key sectors such as renewable energy, digital technology, electric vehicles, robotics, space, biotechnology, and startups. The two sides are also working towards strengthening Fintech connectivity between the two countries.

“Thailand holds a special place in India’s Act East Policy and our Indo-Pacific vision. Today, we have decided to elevate our relationship to a Strategic Partnership. We also discussed establishing a Strategic Dialogue between our security agencies,” he announced.

Modi also said both sides spoke about enhancing cooperation in tourism, culture and education between India’s northeastern states and Thailand. India will also grant free e-visa for Thai tourists, he said. “We believe in pro-development policies and not expansionist policies,” the PM further said.

PM Modi Witnesses Ramayana’s Thai Rendition ‘Ramakien’

Earlier in the day, PM Modi Prime Minister Modi witnessed a performance of the Ramakien, Thailand’s adaptation of the Ramayana.

He also posted some photos from the event to share a glimpse of the performance along with the caption, “A unique cultural relationship! I had the pleasure of watching the captivating performance of the Ramakien, an experience full of value that beautifully demonstrates the cultural and civilizational ties shared between India and Thailand. The Ramakien continues to strengthen the bond of spirituality and tradition across many regions of Asia.”

PM Modi Receives Warm Welcome In Bangkok

Upon his arrival, PM Modi was received by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Suriya Jungrungreangkit. He also met the Indian community in Bangkok, and said on X, “India and Thailand have deep cultural ties that continue to be shared through our peoples. It is great to see this relationship reflected so clearly here.”

PM Modi To Attend Sixth BIMSTEC Summit

In the evening, PM Modi will attend the 6th BIMSTEC Summit. Several global leaders including Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, Bangladesh Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus and Myanmar military junta leader Min Aung Hlaing, among others, will also be present during the Summit.

Earlier in the day, in an official statement PM Modi said, “During my official visit, I will have the opportunity to engage with Prime Minister Shinawatra and the Thai leadership, with a common desire to elevate our age-old historical ties, which are based on the strong foundations of shared culture, philosophy, and spiritual thought.”

Location :

Bangkok, Thailand