MFA Press Statement: Introductory Visit of Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Law K Shanmugam to the Kingdom of Thailand, 28-29 November 2011

Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Law K Shanmugam, who is in Bangkok for his introductory visit, called on Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce of Thailand Kittiratt Na Ranong this afternoon. DPM Kittiratt received Minister Shanmugam on behalf of Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, who had been hospitalised. DPM Kittiratt and Minister Shanmugam reaffirmed the warm and long-standing ties between the two countries. DPM Kittiratt briefed Minister Shanmugam on the ongoing flood relief and reconstruction efforts. Minister Shanmugam reiterated the sympathy of the Singapore Government for those affected by Thailand's floods, and expressed confidence in the resilience and abilities of the Thai government and people in recovering from the crisis.

Yesterday, Minister Shanmugam met with Thai Foreign Minister Dr Surapong Tovichakchaikul, who hosted dinner. Both Ministers discussed ways to further strengthen bilateral relations and how the two countries could work together to advance ASEAN's agenda.

During his two-day visit, Minister Shanmugam also met Privy Councillors General Surayud Chulanont and Air Chief Marshall Siddhi Savetsila, as well as other prominent personalities to discuss developments in Thailand, regional and international issues.

Minister Shanmugam returns to Singapore this evening.

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MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
SINGAPORE
29 NOVEMBER 2011