Bangkok-Moscow To Forge Closer Security Cooperation To Combat Terrorism

BANGKOK, Feb 12 (Bernama) -- Acknowledging that international collaboration is integral to defeat terrorism, Thailand will forge closer security cooperation with Moscow to combat the menace. The government's deputy spokesman, Maj Gen Weerachon Sukondhapatipak said both countries also agreed to enhance cooperation to address transnational crime, including human trafficking, drug-related crime, immigration and cyber crime. "On the terrorism situation happening around the world at the moment, it demonstrates the importance of promoting international cooperation, and Thailand agrees to fully cooperate with Russia in the fight against terrorism and transnational crime," he said in a statement Thursday. The statement was issued after Russia's Security Council Secretary, Nikolai Patrushev called on Prime Minister Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha at the Government House here. Weerachon said during the meeting, Prayut also extended an invitation to Russian President Vladimir Putin to make an official visit to the Kingdom next year to mark the 120th year of Thailand-Russia bilateral relations. -- BERNAMA