Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha is considering expanding trade and investment in Africa and proposed a "Thai-African initiative'' to promote greater relationships between Thailand and African countries.
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha poses for a group photo yesterday with Asian and African leaders during the 2015 Asian-African Conference in Jakarta, Indonesia. the government house
In a keynote speech delivered at the Asian-African Conference in Jakarta yesterday, Gen Prayut said Africa hosts many countries with rapidly growing economies due to its successful reforms — leading to significant interest among foreign investors.
"Thailand is determined to be a partner in Africa's success," said Gen Prayut, who added the government's Thai-Africa Initiative is underway.
The prime minister said agreements under Asean, such as the Asean Free Trade Agreement, will be the key for guiding economic cooperation between Asia and Africa.
Government spokesman Yongyuth Mayalarp said earlier that Gen Prayut also met Palestinian Prime Minister Rami Hamdallah in a bilateral meeting, as Thailand supports Palestine financially.
Mr Yongyuth said Thailand has provided Palestine with training in agriculture, transportation, labour skills and tourism, to help improve local livelihoods.
Regarding the peace process in the Middle East, Gen Prayut told Mr Hamdallah he hopes peace will be achieved soon, with cooperation from both sides under a United Nations resolution.