BANGKOK, 17 August 2012 – Foreign Affairs Minister Surapong Tovichakchaikul is scheduled to visit Brazil and Chile during August 17-20, at the invitation of his counterparts in both countries.
According to Deputy Director-General of the Information Department Sek Wannamethee, the visit is aimed at strengthening bilateral ties between Thailand and Chile and Brazil. The Foreign Affairs minister is set to affirm Thailand’s position as a strategic gateway to ASEAN and a competitive and attractive investment destination.
Mr Sek elaborated that as Chile and Brazil are two of the emerging and growth-leading economies, the Thai government aims to further boost bilateral trade and investment cooperation with the two South American nations.
The visit also marks the 50th Anniversary of Thailand – Chile Diplomatic Relations. During his visit to Chile, Mr Surapong is due to pay courtesy calls on Chilean President Sebastián Piñera and to hold talks with Foreign Minister Alfredo Moreno.
High on the minister’s agenda at the meeting is Thailand’s plan to finalize the negotiation on a free trade agreement between Thailand and Chile. The negotiation is expected to be completed by the end of this year.
Following the meeting, Mr Surapong will present Thai books and artefacts to the Diplomatic Academy of Chile for the use in its Thai study research. The Foreign Minister is also scheduled to plant a Cassia fistula, or Ratchaphruek, tree at Plaza Tailandia Park, where Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn had presided over its opening ceremony. A Thai Pavilion is set to be built in the park in commemoration of the anniversary.
