Shows, seminars to mark 65 years of ties

Thailand and Myanmar will hold a joint celebration next month to commemorate the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

The Foreign Ministry’s East Asia Department director-general Damrong Kraikuan said the celebration aims to strengthen relations as the two countries move toward the single Asean community in 2015.

Thailand shares its longest border with Myanmar and the two countries depend on each other for workers, energy and natural resources.

Thailand is also an important investor and trade partner for Myanmar, Mr Damrong said, and added that Myanmar provides a bypass for Thailand to access markets in India, Europe and the Middle East.

The two countries are also cooperating to develop the Dawei deep-sea port which will further bridge people and goods between Asean and the West, improving the quality of life for people in both countries, he said.

A series of celebrations are planned this year including seminars, cultural performances and a fashion show featuring clothes by top Thai and Myanmar designers. A commemoration book, photo exhibition, football match and concerts will be held later this year.

A formal reception is also planned on Aug 14 at the Foreign Ministry in Bangkok and will be attended by Myanmar Foreign Minister Wanna Muang Lwin, he said.