BANGKOK: Thai Prime Minister General Prayut Chan-o-cha says Thailand and Malaysia must work together to build stability and security in its border areas, enhance economic cooperation and foster stronger partnership under the Asean framework.
He said that in his discussion with Dr Mahathir, both leaders have agreed to build a new decade of Malaysia – Thai relations.
The two leaders, he said, discussed three key issues, which are addressing the problem in Thailand’s southern border provinces; economic development and border connectivity, as well as cooperation within the Asean framework.
On the southern conflict, Prayut said he and Dr Mahathir shared the view that it is in both countries’ interest that the issue is resolved.
“Even though the Thai side considers the issue as an internal matter, we believe that cooperation from outside should make our task easier,” he said.
Prayut said he had a frank discussion with Dr Mahathir and assured the latter that the dialogue will continue with Malaysia as the facilitator.
He said the two countries will expand the scope of cooperation to other areas such as border security, economic development and security issues.
Prayut was speaking at a joint press conference with Dr Mahathir following their restricted meeting as well as bilateral meeting at the Government House in Bangkok on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, on economic development, Prayut said he proposed that both sides elevate the economic cooperation level to that of an ‘enhanced strategic economic partnership.’
“In this regard, both countries will jointly push forward pending cooperation projects, with emphasis on border are development, connectivity, trade investment and tourism on both sides,” he said.
Prayut also paid tribute to Dr Mahathir, describing him as “a statesman, and a senior leader of the region and the world.”
He said Dr Mahathir, during the latter’s first tenure as prime minister (1981 – 2003) left behind countless legacies in the development of Malaysia, strengthening of Asean and deepening of Malaysia – Thailand relations.
“His return as prime minister of Malaysia is therefore a move to be welcomed and celebrated.”
