Russia to buy more Thai farm products

BANGKOK, February 20 (TNA) - Russia eyes to import more Thai farm products, including rice and rubber, with agencies concerned of both sides to further discuss the plan in details and conclude government-to-government deals for mutual benefits. A Russian delegation, led by Russian Ambassador to Thailand Kirill Mikhailovich Barsky, raised the issue at a meeting with Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister General Prawit Wongsuwan at Bangkok's Government House on Friday, as part of their discussion on bilateral trade and investment cooperation between the two countries. General Prawit, thus, proposed that a joint working panel be set up, comprising government agencies concerned of both sides, to further discuss and consider the issue in details, covering all aspects, before a transparent government-to-government (G-to-G) agreement beneficial to both countries is concluded. As Thailand and Russia will celebrate the 120th anniversary of their diplomatic relations in 2016, issues raised for talks between the Russian delegation and the Thai deputy premier and defence minister also included further promoting and developing the long-time bilateral ties and military cooperation through exchange visits and education cooperation, covering study tours of military personnel at various levels. The Thai deputy premier and defence minister took the opportunity to thank Russia for understanding Thailand's current situation and supporting the Thai interim government's attempts to implement and fulfill its roadmap on national reconciliation and reform toward a quick restoration of democracy in Thailand. The Thai deputy prime minister and defence minister also thanked the Russian top envoy for supporting and encouraging more Russian people to visit Thailand. The Russian ambassador, meanwhile, invited the Thai deputy prime minister to attend an international anti-terrorism and strengthening relations conference to be held in Russia from April 16-17, 2015. (TNA)