Foreign Minister Maris Riekstins invites Thailand to consider possibilities for further alleviation of travel regulations for Latvian tourists

On 25 May, Foreign Minister Maris Riekstins met with the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Thailand, Kasit Piromya. Their meeting took place within the framework of the ASEM Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Hanoi, Vietnam.

The foreign ministers of Latvia and Thailand discussed the possiblities for the development of a political and an economic dialogue between both countries as well as a dialogue in other sectors. "Thailand is the main destination for Latvian tourists in Asia, and the number of visitors could increase if the Thai side considered possibilities for further alleviation of travel regulations for Latvia's tourists," Foreign Minister Riekstins emphasised.

During the meeting, the ministers also discussed the strengthening of the legal framework and expressed readiness to conclude in the nearest future a Latvia-Thailand agreement for the avoidance of double taxation and the prevention of fiscal evasion. The ministers shared the opinion that the establishment of a legal framework has a vital importance for the strengthening of economic co-operation. The Foreign Minister of Thailand noted the role of the capital city Bangkok as a hub for regional co-operation, and invited to seek new vectors of co-operation both in the public and private sector. Minister Piromya highlighted pharmacy and the production of medical products, and also science and research as prospective bilateral co-operation sectors in which Thailand appreciates Latvia's expertise. Both ministers agreed about further consultations at the expert level on practical possibilities for such co-operation.

Diplomatic relations between Latvia and Thailand were established on 19 March 1992. Since 1994, Latvia's interests in Thailand are represented by Honorary Consul Prasong Chongratanakul, whereas Thailand is represented in Latvia by Ambassador Jullapong Nonsrichai residing in Oslo, Norway.

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