Thailand and Nepal Strengthen Diplomatic Ties with Eight New Agreements
Prime Ministers of Thailand and Nepal sign memoranda of understanding to enhance cooperation in tourism, education, and trade.
Thailand and Nepal have formalized their diplomatic relationship through the signing of eight memoranda of understanding (MoUs) during a visit by Nepali Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli to Bangkok.
The agreements were signed on April 3, 2025, in the presence of Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra at Government House.
These MoUs cover a range of cooperation areas including tourism, education, culture, and trade.
Government spokesman Jirayu Houngsub stated that this official visit marks the first by a Nepali prime minister to Thailand in 80 years, reflecting a historic moment aimed at uplifting bilateral ties.
During their discussions, the two leaders emphasized mutual interests, expressing a commitment to enhance cooperation in energy and infrastructure development.
Prime Minister Shinawatra highlighted the importance of Nepal's advancements in hydropower and water resource management as exemplary.
Both parties agreed to take measures to reduce trade barriers and simplify business regulations, with the Thai Prime Minister pledging to promote Thai investments in Nepal.
The current trade volume between the two countries stands at approximately USD 40 million annually, with the aim to increase this figure significantly.
In a bid to bolster economic ties, they also discussed expanding air travel routes between Bangkok and Kathmandu, which is expected to facilitate tourism and commerce.
Additional agreements include initiatives to increase person-to-person and cultural exchanges, alongside enhancing collaboration in the wellness and hospitality sectors.
Furthermore, Prime Minister Shinawatra expressed gratitude for Nepal's support in Thailand's role as the chair of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC).
She stated her commitment to positioning BIMSTEC as a critical platform for regional cooperative efforts and sustainable development, underlining the importance of both bilateral and multilateral engagement between the nations.