Russia, Thailand hail 6th JC meeting

MOSCOW, July 17 (TNA) - Russia and Thailand have hailed the success of the 6th Session of the Russian-Thai Joint Commission, held in Moscow this week, as it has resulted in reducing barriers and facilitating trade, farming and energy businesses between both countries. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and his visiting Thai counterpart General Tanasak Patimapragorn expressed their satisfaction with the 6th Session of the Russian-Thai Joint Commission during their bilateral talks in the Russian capital on July 16. On the occasion, the Foreign Ministries of Russia and Thailand also signed a joint plan to be implemented from 2016-2018. At a joint press conference, held later, the Russian foreign minister praised close ties between Russia and Thailand and planned activities for the celebration of the 120th anniversary of their diplomatic relations in 2017. The Thai foreign minister, in turn, stressed on strong and long-standing relations between Russia and Thailand and proclaimed his ongoing trip to Russia a success, as both sides have set up committees to facilitate bilateral trade in farm products and promote cooperation on energy, sciences and academic knowledge. Besides, Russian and Thai authorities have discussed regional situation, international challenges and sustainable development. The Thai foreign minister also said Thai Prime Minister General Prayut Chan-ocha has invited Russian President Vladimir Putin to visit Thailand and the Thai premier plans to visit Russia as well. Earlier in the day, General Tanasak, who is also Thai Deputy Prime Minister, met Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Rogozin, during which they discussed a plan to boost Thai exports of farm products to Russia, especially rubber, rice, pork, chicken and seafood, and to promote bilateral tourism, cultural exchange and citizens’ relations. The Thai deputy prime minister and foreign minister is paying an official visit to Russia from July 14 to 19, aimed to strengthen bilateral relations between Moscow and Bangkok. (TNA)