Bangkok and Ankara become sister cities

BANGKOK, 22 March 2012 (NNT) - Following the signing of an agreement on friendship and cooperation between Bangkok and Ankara, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is set to send its officials to the Turkish capital in order to study its urban improvement plans.

Bangkok Governor M.R. Sukhumbhand Paribatra and his Turkish counterpart, Mr. Melih Gökçek, have signed a friendship and cooperation agreement between the cities of Bangkok and Ankara. M.R. Sukhumbhand disclosed that the BMA will be sending a team of officials to Turkey in order to acquire knowledge and understanding about Ankara's urban renewal strategy, which could later be adapted to the city planning of Bangkok in an efficient manner.

The Bangkok Governor viewed that Thailand should adopt Ankara's successful city plan as a model to modify the Thai capital, which still consists of slums leading to a number of problems in public utilities, crime, drug and public area trespassing. Ankara's urban renewal plan highlights the increase of green zones in the capital. At present, the Turkish city has a total number of 28 public parks.

Following the recent establishment of friendship and cooperation, officials from both cities will hold discussions aimed at improving the quality of life for the elderly, disabled, women and homeless children.

-- NNT 2012-03-22

Most Thai never heard of Turkey. Those who do, only know cold turkey.

I've been to both cities and they aren't alike at all. Ankara indeed has lots of green spaces. Too late for Bangkok.