Thailand And Singapore To Step Up Anti-piracy

Thailand and Singapore to step up anti-piracy co-operation

CHIANG MAI: - Foreign Minister Kantathi Suphamongkhon said today that Thailand and Singapore will discuss anti-piracy and anti-terrorism, as well as economic co-operation.

Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong arrived in Chiangmai this morning on a two-day visit during which a round of informal talks has been scheduled between him and Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra.

On the agenda of talks between the two premiers are security issues in the Straits of Malacca, a strategic shipping route for both countries. Thailand and Singapore are planning to step up co-operation in Asia's maritime security by acceding to an agreement against piracy. Mr. Lee and Mr. Thaksin are also expected to discuss anti-terrorism measures.

As part of bilateral economic co-operation, Thailand will seek Singapore's help in developing the small- and medium-sized enterprises sector and also in the development of skilled labour.

--TNA 2005-09-03