India and Thailand Strengthen Defence and Security Ties
Ambassador Nagesh Singh Highlights Growing Collaborations
Indian Ambassador to Thailand, Nagesh Singh, has emphasized the increasing defence and security collaborations between India and Thailand. He noted that both countries share common threat perceptions and have aligned their strategic objectives.
Increased Dialogues and Exercises
The two nations have initiated more dialogues and exercises at the staff level and among their three armed forces. This includes participation in multinational exercises like SITMECs in the Bay of Bengal.
Addressing Human Trafficking and Unregulated Fishing
Ambassador Singh highlighted the issues of human trafficking and unregulated fishing in the Bay of Bengal, noting that Coast Guard ships from both countries are visiting each other to address these concerns.
Joint Military Exercise MAITREE
The 13th edition of the India-Thailand joint military exercise, MAITREE, is being conducted from July 1-15 at Fort Vachiraprakan in Tak Province, Thailand. The Indian Army contingent, mainly from the Ladakh Scouts, and the Royal Thailand Army contingent are participating.
Exploring Defence Production Partnerships
India and Thailand are now looking to extend their cooperation to defence production, including co-production and co-development of defence equipment.
Multifaceted Relationship
Ambassador Singh described the India-Thailand relationship as multifaceted and on a high upward trajectory, with strong political, economic, and people-to-people ties. He highlighted the significant number of Indian tourists visiting Thailand and the cultural connections through Buddhism and Hinduism.
Future Strategic Partnership
The Ambassador affirmed that the relationship between India and Thailand is moving towards a strategic partnership, expected to be formalized in the coming months.
