India and Thailand Strengthen Ties with MoU Exchange Ahead of BIMSTEC Summit

Bangkok, Thailand – April 3, 2025 – India and Thailand have exchanged multiple Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) ahead of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) Summit, reinforcing their commitment to deepening bilateral relations. The exchange took place in Bangkok in the presence of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra.

Expanding Cooperation Across Key Sectors

The MoUs signed between the two nations aim to boost cooperation in multiple areas, including:

• Trade and Investment – Enhancing economic collaboration, reducing trade barriers, and promoting investment opportunities.

• Digital Economy – Strengthening partnerships in fintech, digital payments, and e-commerce platforms.

• Defense and Security – Expanding defense cooperation, intelligence sharing, and maritime security initiatives.

• Tourism and Culture – Promoting cultural exchanges, tourism development, and connectivity between the two countries.

• Infrastructure and Connectivity – Advancing cross-border transport, logistics, and connectivity projects.

Strengthening the BIMSTEC Regional Framework

As a founding member of BIMSTEC, India has been actively pushing for greater economic and regional integration. The latest MoU exchange aligns with the broader BIMSTEC objectives of promoting trade, investment, and security collaboration among member nations, including Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.

Leaders’ Remarks on the Strengthening Partnership

Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the strategic importance of India-Thailand relations, emphasizing the need for stronger trade ties and improved regional connectivity. “India and Thailand share deep historical and cultural bonds, and these agreements will further solidify our economic and diplomatic partnership,” he stated.

Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra echoed similar sentiments, stressing Thailand’s commitment to deepening engagement with India in trade, technology, and security. She noted that the new MoUs would pave the way for increased collaboration between Thai and Indian businesses.

Future Outlook and Regional Implications

The MoU exchange reflects India’s Act East Policy, which seeks to enhance ties with Southeast Asian nations. The agreements will not only facilitate trade and security cooperation but also bolster Thailand’s role as a gateway between South and Southeast Asia.

With both governments focused on implementing these agreements efficiently, the India-Thailand partnership is set to gain greater economic and geopolitical significance in the BIMSTEC region.

Disclaimer: This report is based on publicly available information and official statements. Readers are encouraged to refer to government sources for further details on the signed MoUs.