Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha begins his two-day visit to Bhutan Thursday to strengthen bilateral relations in trade, investment, public health, and tourism; and reiterate Thailand's willingness to advance sustainable development cooperation with the Himalayan kingdom.
During the official visit, which follows Gen Prayut's trip to Sri Lanka last week, he will answer His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck's courtesy call at the Tashichhodzong, the royal palace; have talks with Prime Minister Dasho Tshering Tobgay; open a new office building for the Royal Thai honorary consulate-general in Thimphu; and visit a "One Gewong, One Product" shop, a cooperation project inspired by Thailand's "One Tambon, One Product" scheme.
Deputy government spokesman Werachon Sukondhapatipak said that since the two countries established diplomatic ties in 1989 they have forged strong links. They share similar social and cultural foundations, namely Buddhism and a monarchy, he added.
Lt Gen Werachon said the relationship is focused mainly on academic cooperation at present. Bhutan looks up to Thailand as a development model, particularly the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy proposed by His Majesty the Late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the spokesman said.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokeswoman Busadee Santipitaks described this week's visit as a milestone in bilateral ties to boost goodwill and grow cooperation in a wide range of areas.
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