India, Thailand face common security threats as maritime neighbours: PM

New Delhi, Jan 25 (ANI): The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, on Wednesday said both India and Thailand face common security threats from emerging non-traditional challenges such as terrorism, security of sea lanes of communication and piracy as maritime neighbours.

Dr. Singh in his banquet speech during the state visit of Thailand's Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, said: "As maritime neighbours, both India and Thailand face common security threats from emerging non-traditional challenges such as terrorism, security of sea lanes of communication and piracy. We are expanding our cooperation in dealing with them."

Asserting that Asia is in the midst of an economic resurgence, Dr. Singh said: "Both India and Thailand are in a position to play a key role in shaping the future of Asia. India's 'Look East' policy and Thailand's Look West policy compliment and reinforce each other as we both seek to broaden the horizons of our cooperation with our neighbours."

"We thank Thailand for supporting the ASEAN's dialogue partnership with India. In the years ahead we will work with Thailand to enhance connectivity over land, sea and air between India and South East Asia and forge a strong partnership between our countries," he added.

Shinawatra, who became Thailand's first woman Prime Minister in August last year, will be the chief guest at India's 63rd Republic Day Parade on Thursday.

"Your visit coincides with the 65th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our two countries. Yet links between the peoples of India and Thailand go back thousands of years. The abiding message of Lord Buddha inspired generations of scholars, monks, pilgrims and common people in our countries," said Dr. Singh.

"Today, as democratic and pluralistic nations, both our countries share common values and aspirations. We aspire for higher growth, an inclusive society, sustainable development and an external environment which facilitates our national development," he added.

The Prime Minister said India admires and applauds Thailand's many strengths.

"Your success in ensuring food security, establishing a strong and competitive manufacturing industry and in setting global benchmarks in tourism are worthy of emulation," said Dr. Singh.

Stating that India sees Thailand as its natural partner, Dr. Singh said : "Our complementary strengths provide us with a solid foundation for intensifying economic and commercial links. We welcome Thai companies to take full advantage of opportunities opening up in India."

"It is heartening to note the increasing exchanges of students, scholars, academics, and tourists between our two countries," he added.

Further lauding the Thai Prime Minister, Dr. Singh said : "As Thailand's first woman Prime Minister and one of its youngest you have an onerous responsibility to lead your country at a critical time of its history."

"Your leadership during the recent floods has earned you admiration among all sections of people. We salute the resolve of the Thai people in combating these floods and their determination to resume normal life again," he added. (ANI)