Nepal is set to sign agreements on cultural and tourism collaboration with Thailand during Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s official visit to attend the BIMSTEC Summit. Government officials insist these agreements aim to enhance bilateral cooperation in tourism, trade, and investment, further strengthening the friendly ties between the two nations.
During the second day of his five-day visit, Prime Minister Oli met with his Thai counterpart, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, on Wednesday, where discussions centered on expanding economic partnerships and deepening historical and cultural connections. Following their talks, the two leaders will witness the signing of a tourism cooperation agreement. Additionally, six memoranda of understanding (MoUs) will be exchanged between business and non-governmental organizations from both countries, fostering closer economic collaboration.
Nepal and Thailand share deep-rooted ties linked by Buddhist heritage, with Lumbini—a revered pilgrimage site for Thai Buddhists—serving as a key cultural bridge. Diplomatic relations, established on November 30, 1959, have since expanded through cooperation in tourism, trade, and education. The Thai government has also contributed to strengthening ties by constructing a Buddhist monastery in Lumbini.
Beyond government-level relations, people-to-people connections remain strong. Around 80,000 individuals of Nepali origin reside in Thailand, reflecting the historical and cultural ties between the two nations. In recent years, the number of Nepali visitors to Thailand for tourism, study, and trade has risen, says Nepal’s Ambassador to Thailand Dhan Bahadur Oli while over 25,000 Thai tourists visited Nepal in 2023.
Trade between the two countries has also played a crucial role in strengthening bilateral relations. Nepal exports herbs, handicrafts, hardened cheese, handmade paper, and nettle fabric to Thailand, while Thai exports to Nepal include electrical appliances, motor vehicles, garments, and fruits. However, Nepal continues to face a trade deficit in its exchanges with Thailand. Thai investors have also shown interest in Nepal’s manufacturing and tourism industries.
As part of his visit, PM Oli will attend a luncheon hosted by the Thai Prime Minister and hold a courtesy meeting with King Maha Vajiralongkorn. PM Oli will attend the BIMSTEC Summit on April 4. He is scheduled to return to Nepal on April 5. -- RSS
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