Thailand interested in cooperation with Kazakhstan on critical minerals, tourism, and food security

ASTANA. June 25 (Interfax) - Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev hosted Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow and discussed prospects for cooperation between the two countries with him, the presidential press service said.

Welcoming his guest, Tokayev said Thailand is one of the leading economies in Southeast Asia and Kazakhstan is interested in deepening mutual cooperation.

Bilateral trade-economic relations are developing dynamically, which is largely facilitated by the mutual visa-free regime, record tourism indicators and the expansion of business contacts, Tokayev said.

"Kazakhstan remains a leading trade partner for Thailand in Central Asia, and it accounts for more than 70% of all trade with the region. Nevertheless, we believe we have huge unused potential. Fifty-five Thai companies are currently registered on the Kazakh market [...] Kazakhstan welcomes the strengthening of business connections and suggests that companies from Thailand study the investment capabilities of our country," Tokayev said.

Thailand's foreign minister said his country is ready to be a connecting link in the development of cooperation with the countries of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN).

"Thailand is interested in implementing joint projects in promising areas such as tourism, including medical tourism, hotel construction, development of chains to supply critical minerals and ensure food security," Phuangketkeow said.

At the end of the meeting, Tokayev invited Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul to pay an official visit to Kazakhstan.