Pope Francis has agreed to an invitation to visit Thailand, the government spokesman said on Thursday.
Pope Francis, left, talks with Prime Minster Yingluck Shinawatra during a private audience at the Vatican on Thursday. (EPA/pool photo)
Teerat Ratanasevi posted the message on Twitter that the invitation was offered by Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra during her audience with the Roman Catholic leader on Thursday at the Vatican.
The date for the visit has not been set. Thailand set up diplomatic relations with the Holy See for 390 years. Pope John Paul II visited Thailand in 1984.
Ms Yingluck praised Pope Francis for his efforts to promote human rights, help the poor and encourage global peace, a Government House statement said.
The visit to the Vatican is part of Ms Yingluck's European trip which includes Switzerland, Italy and Montenegro.
She will hold talks with Thai students in Rome on Friday before leaving for a visit to Montenegro on Saturday. She is scheduled to return to Thailand on Sunday.