Bangkok, Thailand – During his first official visit to Thailand to attend the 6th BIMSTEC Summit, H.E. Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India, held a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra on April 3, 2025. The leaders discussed strengthening cooperation in key sectors, including defense, security, maritime safety, trade, and investment. They also agreed to collaborate in areas such as agriculture, MSMEs, shipping, FinTech, and space.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
Both Prime Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to deepening economic and strategic ties, emphasizing the complementarity of India’s ‘Act East’ and Thailand’s ‘Act West’ policies. PM Modi highlighted that these policies “open several possibilities for bilateral cooperation.”
The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific, based on rules and cooperation, rejecting expansionism in favor of development-ism (Vikasvaad over Vistaarvaad).
During their discussions, the leaders reiterated their commitment to tackling regional and global challenges, including terrorism, money laundering, and other security concerns. PM Modi noted on X, formerly Twitter: “Our talks focused on ways to deepen the India-Thailand Strategic Partnership. The sectors we discussed include strategic areas such as defense, security, maritime safety, and hydrography.”
Strategic Partnership Announced
A key highlight of the visit was the elevation of India-Thailand relations to a Strategic Partnership, marking a new era of collaboration. The two leaders also announced the establishment of a ‘Strategic Dialogue’ between security agencies.
Additionally, they witnessed the exchange of eight agreements and MoUs, covering areas such as trade, MSMEs, handloom, handicrafts, and cultural exchanges.
Cultural and Spiritual Connections
Cultural ties between India and Thailand remain at the heart of their relationship. PM Modi highlighted the historical and linguistic connections between the two nations:
“The spread of Buddhism has connected our people at every level. There has been an exchange of scholars from Ayutthaya to Nalanda. The tale of the Ramayana is deeply woven into Thai folk life. The influence of Sanskrit-Pali is still reflected in the languages and traditions today.”
As a special gesture, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra presented PM Modi with the Sajjhaya Phonetic Edition of Tipitaka, a sacred Buddhist text, in honor of His Majesty the King’s 6th Cycle Birthday Anniversary on 28 July 2024.
Additionally, Thailand commemorated PM Modi’s visit by releasing a special stamp featuring 18th-century Ramakien mural paintings, a Thai adaptation of the Ramayana. Modi reacted to the tribute on X:
“A timeless impression and graceful symbol of our shared cultural relations! The Thai Government has released an iStamp on themes relating to the Ramayana. The stamp depicts Ramakien mural paintings that were painted during the reign of King Rama I.”
Meeting with Former Thai PM Thaksin Shinawatra
PM Modi also met with former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who has longstanding ties with India. The two discussed governance, economic cooperation, and trade relations.
Humanitarian Support and BIMSTEC Commitments
In the wake of the recent earthquake in Myanmar, both leaders expressed their condolences and pledged humanitarian assistance.
PM Modi reiterated India’s commitment to ASEAN unity and regional cooperation. He announced India’s support for maritime cooperation and regional security, key priorities at the BIMSTEC Summit 2025 where he will engage with leaders from Nepal, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Bhutan to further regional economic and security partnerships. PM Modi’s next stop after Thailand will be Sri Lanka.
The visit marks a pivotal moment in India-Thailand relations, setting the stage for deeper engagement in trade, security, and cultural exchange.