N. Korea invites Thailand to build embassy in Pyongyang

N. Korea invites Thailand to build embassy in Pyongyang

The North Korean envoy to Thailand has asked the kingdom to set up an embassy in Pyongyang, paving the way for strengthened cooperation with the hermit nation, Deputy Prime Minister Wissanu Krea-ngam said yesterday.

Speaking after talks with North Korean ambassador Mun Song-mo, Mr Wissanu said the North Korean ambassador wants government to build an embassy in Pyongyang, since this year marks 40 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

"Our embassy in Beijing is currently in charge of Pyongyang. If we decide to build an embassy there, several processes must be considered — budget matters in particular," Mr Wissanu said.

To mark the four decades of diplomatic ties, Thailand and North Korea will strengthen economic cooperation, since Thai companies including Loxley Plc have invested in North Korea, he said.

Mr Wissanu acknowledged the negative image of North Korea in the world community, but said he was not in the position to criticise or express a view.

The North Korean ambassador also met Deputy Prime Minister Yongyuth Yuthavong, who offered to help bring peace to the Korean peninsula. "The ambassador said the North Korean government will move forward for Korean reunification which is a positive stance," Mr Yongyuth said. "I offered a hand if it can help."

Mr Yongyuth also passed on his best wishes to North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, saying he expects to see Pyongyang boosting its engagement with many countries.

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