Thailand, Ireland celebrate 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations

BANGKOK, March 18 (TNA) - Thailand and Ireland celebrate the 40th anniversary of the establishment of their diplomatic relations, with a banquet held at the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Bangkok on March 17. Irish Ambassador to Thailand Brendan Rogers and Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister General Tanasak Patimapragorn attended the banquet, jointly hosted by the Irish Embassy in Bangkok and the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs, showing friendship and sound bilateral cooperation in various areas between the two allied countries, especially in tourism and education. Prior to the ceremonial reception, the Thai deputy premier and foreign minister welcomed the Irish top envoy and both side then held bilateral talks on the two countries' relations in trade and investment, as well as cooperation in various spheres. Besides, Thailand has given importance to promoting cooperation with Ireland on science and technology, as well as innovations, in which Ireland has expertise. In 2013-2014, Thailand sent teams of scientists and researchers to study systems and policy on promoting excellent research projects and innovations in Ireland. Thailand and Ireland also concluded a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on education cooperation on February 27, 2014. (TNA)