Thai PM in Myanmar for one-day visit

BANGKOK, Oct 10 -- Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva left Bangkok early Monday for a one-day official visit to Myanmar, aimed at strengthening relations between the two countries and to express his government's determination to support the upcoming general election in that country.

Upon arrival at the airport in the new capital of Naypyidaw, Mr Abhisit and his delegates were welcomed by his Myanmar counterpart Gen Thein Sein.

The government leaders later discussed ways to solve problems prevailing at the two countries’ border, the ongoing Mae Sot-Myawaddy border closure in Tak province since July 12 that has jeopardised border trade between the two countries, building telecommunication networks and on cooperation in sending workers to work in each country.

Mr Abhisit was also scheduled to make a courtesy call on Senior General Than Shwe, chairman of the State Peace and Development Council, before attending a luncheon to be hosted by Gen Thein Sein.

In the afternoon, Mr Abhisit and his delegation were scheduled to visit a Buddhist temple and view a bodhi tree planted earlier by Thai Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn.

Mr Abhisit is to visit the former capital of Yangon later and present his government’s policy to the Thai ambassador who will host a dinner.

Prime Minister Abhisit and his delegations are scheduled to arrive in Bangkok at 10.45pm.

His visit was made ahead of the general elections in Myanmar due to be held on Nov 7, the first in 20 years.

Thailand and Myanmar are both members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). (MCOT online news)