Japan eyes to invest in Thai transport systems

BANGKOK, January 18 (TNA) - Transport Minister Chadchat Sittipunt says Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has informed that Japan is keen to invest in new infrastructure development projects in Thailand, especially transport systems such as high-speed trains. The minister announced on Friday that the Thai government will organize international bidding contests for the new investment plans and Japan can, thus, bid for the construction of new high-speed train projects in Thailand. The Thai government plans to develop high-speed trains on four new routes, from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Nong Khai, Rayong and Hua Hin, with terms of reference (TOR) to be issued in the third quarter of this year for the bidding contests, for the construction of signaling systems and train procurements. As Myanmar has responded positively to Japan’s interest in developing an industrial estate in Dawei, the Thai transport minister assessed that investment plans in Dawei in neighbouring Myanmar should be clear by March, 2013. (TNA)