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PR. No. 285/2009

Date: 24/07/2009   

PAKISTAN FOREIGN MINISTER MEETS THE FOREIGN MINISTER OF THAILAND

Foreign Minister Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Qureshi met with Thailand 's Foreign Minister Mr. Kasit Primoya on the margins of the 16 th ARF Ministerial Meeting in Phuket , Thailand . He complimented Thailand for successfully hosting the ARF Foreign Ministers' meeting as well as on its Chairmanship of ASEAN.

Welcoming the Foreign Minister, the Thai Foreign Minister expressed great satisfaction over friendly relations between the two countries and said that Thailand was keen to further develop these ties. He lauded Pakistan 's contribution to the fight against terrorism and militancy and said that Pakistan 's role was important not only for peace of South Asia but also for global peace. Referring to economic ties, Thai Foreign Minister said that Pakistan 's unique geographic position enabled her to play as a hub for regional economic cooperation and connectivity. Thailand would explore mutually beneficial opportunities to work with Pakistan in viable projects. Both sides also discussed cooperation in science and technology and defence fields.

The Foreign Minister said that Pakistan desires close relations with ASEAN community as part of its ‘Vision East Asia Policy'. Thailand was an important ASEAN member and a close bilateral partner. Pakistan looks forward to further strengthen the existing bilateral cooperation, particularly in the economic field. Both sides agreed to hold Joint Economic Commission and Policy Consultations. They agreed to expedite the conclusion of Visa Abolition Agreement.

Islamabad

24 July 2009