Bangkok: The Prime Minister welcomed the Norwegian Ambassador on his farewell visit, expressing confidence in Thailand's potential and pledging support for Thailand's entry into the OECD. Today at Khu Fah Building, Government House, Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, greeted Her Royal Highness Mrs. Astrid Emilie Helle, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Norway to Thailand, who was concluding her term of office.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Rachada Thanadirek, Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, highlighted the importance of Norway as a key economic partner for Thailand, being its top trading partner among the Nordic countries. During their discussions, both nations expressed confidence in each other's potential and aimed to enhance their long-standing relationship, which spans over 120 years, by fostering cooperation in trade, investment, clean energy, innovative technology, and development.
The Prime Minister emphasized the value of Thailand's relationship with Norway, seeking to enhance economic activities and investments, particularly in future industries where Norway excels. This cooperation is expected to introduce new technologies to support Thai economic development, empower Thai entrepreneurs, and create high-skilled jobs.
The Norwegian Ambassador acknowledged Thailand's political stability and policy direction as critical to its development, expressing Norway's readiness to expand cooperation in clean energy, technology, and innovation to support Thailand's economic transformation.
Discussions also touched upon the Thailand-European Free Trade Association (EFTA) Free Trade Agreement. The Prime Minister believes this agreement will boost trade and investment between Thailand and Norway, granting greater access to the European market for Thai goods and services. Both countries agreed to expedite the agreement's implementation for tangible benefits.
The Prime Minister expressed gratitude for Norway's support in Thailand's pursuit of OECD membership, which Thailand aims to achieve by 2028. He highlighted that OECD membership would enhance Thailand's international status and improve standards in economics, governance, and public administration, boosting long-term competitiveness.
The Norwegian Ambassador praised Thailand's commitment to OECD membership, reflecting its intent to reform and align national standards with international norms. Norway's support for Thailand's OECD process was reaffirmed.
Additionally, the Norwegian Ambassador commended Thailand's role on international and regional stages. The Prime Minister noted Thailand's efforts to foster cooperation with Myanmar, particularly in economic development and border management, to enhance regional stability and ASEAN unity.
The Prime Minister reiterated Thailand's readiness to continue collaborating with Norway, building on their strong relationship and mutual trust to foster tangible cooperation in economics, technology, energy, and sustainable development, benefiting the people of both nations.