*Thai PM gifted Holy Scriptures: “World Ti-pitaka: Sajjhaya Phonetic Edition to PM Modi*
New Delhi: India and Thailand have signed six agreements aimed at enhancing cooperation in sectors such as IT, maritime, MSME, handicrafts, and handlooms. The agreements were formalized following bilateral talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra in Bangkok on Thursday afternoon.
The leaders reviewed the entire spectrum of bilateral relations and discussed ways to further accelerate the India-Thailand partnership, also exchanging views on regional and multilateral issues. During the talks, Prime Minister Modi received a ceremonial guard of honor and later announced the elevation of the India-Thailand relationship to a “Strategic Partnership.”
Highlighting the significance of the bilateral ties, Modi emphasized Thailand’s key role in India’s “Act East” policy and its Indo-Pacific vision. The two leaders also agreed to establish a “strategic dialogue” between the security agencies of both nations to strengthen cooperation in defense and security.
The discussions also focused on expanding collaboration in tourism, culture, and education, particularly between North-East India and Thailand. Further agreements were reached to boost trade, investment, and exchanges between businesses. Modi also highlighted the focus on MSME, handloom, and handicrafts as important sectors for bilateral cooperation.
Reaffirming India’s commitment to ASEAN unity and centrality, Prime Minister Modi expressed strong support for a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific. He noted the centuries-old cultural and spiritual connections between the two countries, from the spread of Buddhism to the shared influence of Sanskrit and Pali on languages and traditions.
Modi also offered condolences for the recent earthquake in Thailand, expressing sympathy for the victims and wishing a swift recovery for the injured. He thanked Prime Minister Shinawatra for the warm welcome and hospitality extended to him during his visit.
Prime Minister Modi is in Thailand for a two-day visit to participate in the 6th BIMSTEC Summit, set to take place tomorrow. Upon arrival in Thailand earlier today, he was greeted by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Suriya Jungrungreangkit.
Modi shared his enthusiasm for strengthening India-Thailand cooperation in a social media post, also expressing gratitude for the warm reception from the Indian community in Thailand. He reflected on the deep cultural bonds between the two nations and enjoyed a cultural performance of the Thai Ramayana, Ramakien, which he described as a “truly enriching experience.”
The 6th BIMSTEC Summit will focus on the theme “BIMSTEC – Prosperous, Resilient and Open,” with key outcomes including the adoption of the Bangkok Vision 2030 and the endorsement of the BIMSTEC Eminent Persons’ Group report, which will chart the future direction of the organization.
After the summit, Prime Minister Modi will travel to Sri Lanka for a three-day state visit, continuing his active engagement with neighboring countries. This will be his fourth visit to Sri Lanka, underscoring the enduring ties between the two nations based on shared history, culture, and strong people-to-people connections. Sri Lanka remains a key partner in India’s Neighbourhood First Policy.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was presented with the Holy Scriptures: “World Ti-pitaka: Sajjhaya Phonetic Edition” by his Thai counterpart Paetongtarn Shinawatra at Bangkok today. It was brought out by the Thai government in 2016 to commemorate the 70-year reign of King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) and Queen Sirikit. The Holy Scriptures is a compilation of Lord Buddha’s teachings with accurate pronunciation of the Pali Tipiṭaka’s over nine million syllables. Thai Government has presented it as a “Gift of Peace and Wisdom for All” from the Kingdom of Thailand to more than 30 countries.
Prime Minister Modi has expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra for giving him a copy of the Tipitaka in Pali.
