Thailand to expand economic cooperation with Nepal

NEPAL, Aug 31 (TNA) --- Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha has proposed Thailand and Nepal increase bilateral trade and investment and jointly promote Buddhism-related tourism. Deputy government spokesman Werachon Sukondhapatipak said Gen Prayut discussed the matters during his bilateral talk with Nepalese Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Sharma Oli. The talk occurred as Gen Prayut visited Nepal to attend the 4th BIMSTEC Summit on Aug 30-31. During the talk, the Thai prime minister proposed both countries have potential to increase bilateral trade and investment in agro-industrial, tourism, construction, energy and infrastructure sectors, Lt Gen Werachon said. The prime minister pointed out that both countries could jointly promote tours to Buddhist-related sites including Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha in Nepal. Besides, the Thai government was ready to help build a hospital in Lumbini, the deputy government spokesman said. According to Lt Gen Werachon, the Nepalese prime minister agreed that both countries could expand their cooperation in various fields. He also expressed gratitude towards Thailand for its assistance for Nepalese victims of natural disasters. In the visit, Gen Prayut also handed medical supplies from Thailand to the Nepalese government to help local disaster victims, Lt Gen Werachon said. (TNA)