Thai ambassadors and consuls from across the north-eastern Asian region met in Hong Kong to discuss strategies…
Thai ambassadors and consuls from across the north-eastern Asian region met in Hong Kong to discuss strategies to prepare for the liberalization of trade with China and the formation of an East Asian Economic Community.
Speaking from Hong Kong after the meeting of Thai diplomats based in China, South Korea and Japan, Foreign Minister Surakiart Sathirathai said that the participants had exchanged ideas on the creation of free trade areas (FTA`s), including the existing FTA between Thailand and China.
Further negotiations were now due to take place with Japan and South Korea, he said.
Also on the agenda was the creation of an East Asian Economic Community, spearheaded by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), as well as Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra`s proposal for increased Indian involvement in the region.
Another major issue for discussion was Thailand`s strategic plan to prepare for China`s latest economic development plan, notably in the areas of trade and tourism.
Mr. Surakiart said that a further meeting of officials would be held when Chinese President Wen Jiabao paid a visit to Thailand in March next year to mark 30 years of Thai-Chinese relations.
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