Prime Minister to visit Bhutan

BANGKOK, July 18 (TNA) -- Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha visits Bhutan on July 19-20 to boost bilateral ties and promote mutual tourism and investment. Deputy government spokesman Werachon Sukondhapatipak said the visit was invited by Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay to further promote bilateral relations that were already close at all levels including royal, governmental and civil ones. “When we look at Bhutan, we do not look at the volume or value of bilateral trade and investment. But we see Bhutan as a true friend of Thailand because in global arenas Bhutan always supports us,” Lt Gen Werachon said. “This visit is for strengthening relations and showing goodwill.” According to him, what Thailand can learn from Bhutan includes simple, peaceful and happy life of people and Thailand can support Bhutan in terms of academic knowledge, development partnership and sufficiency economy. “Besides, Thailand can invest in infrastructures and hotels in Bhutan. We can learn about tourism from each other because Bhutan emphasizes on how to maximise tourism benefits while minimizing environmental impacts,” Lt Gen Werachon said. During the visit, Prime Minister Prayut will also call on Their Majesties King and Queen of Bhutan. He will also presides over the opening ceremony of the new royal consulate of Thailand, and meet with the Prime Minister of Bhutan. (TNA)