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Visit to Thailand
1. Latest Visit: April 3–4, 2025
PM Modi traveled to Bangkok, Thailand, to participate in the 6th BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) Summit. During this visit, he met with the newly elected Thai Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, and engaged in high-level discussions on enhancing regional connectivity, counter-terrorism cooperation, trade, and disaster response strategies.
The visit underscored India’s commitment to multilateralism and regional solidarity, especially in light of recent natural disasters such as the devastating earthquake in Myanmar, which also affected Thailand. The leaders expressed shared goals for stability, sustainable development, and cultural exchange across the BIMSTEC member nations.
2. November 2–4, 2019
Prime Minister Modi had earlier visited Bangkok for the 14th East Asia Summit (EAS) and Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) meetings. During these summits, he highlighted India’s role as a responsible power in the Indo-Pacific, advocating for open trade, rule-based order, and maritime security. The summit was an important platform for engaging with ASEAN and East Asian leaders on collective strategies for peace and prosperity in the region.
3. November 10, 2016
PM Modi made a special visit to Thailand to pay homage at the royal funeral of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, one of Thailand’s most revered monarchs. This gesture was widely appreciated by the Thai people and signified the deep historical and spiritual ties between India and Thailand, rooted in Buddhism and shared cultural heritage.
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Visit to Myanmar
1. September 5–7, 2017
Prime Minister Modi undertook his first bilateral state visit to Myanmar, reflecting India’s intent to deepen relations with its eastern neighbor. During his three-day visit, he held comprehensive talks with then State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi, focusing on border management, infrastructure development, energy cooperation, cultural linkages, and India’s support for Myanmar’s democratic transition.
Modi visited Yangon, Naypyidaw, and Bagan, emphasizing India’s historical and spiritual bonds with Myanmar, particularly through Buddhism. He also announced infrastructure development projects, including the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project and India-Myanmar-Thailand trilateral highway, which are key to improving regional connectivity.
Importantly, during this visit, PM Modi addressed the issue of the Rakhine crisis by urging for peace, security, and the restoration of normalcy in affected areas, while offering India’s humanitarian assistance.
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Significance of These Visits
PM Modi’s visits to Thailand and Myanmar symbolize India’s strategic intent to solidify its position as a key player in Southeast Asia. By reinforcing diplomatic ties, expanding economic cooperation, and building cultural bridges, these visits reflect a vision of interconnected minds and nations, rooted in shared values and mutual respect.
The outreach has also been crucial for India’s broader geopolitical interests, including countering terrorism, ensuring maritime security in the Indo-Pacific, and promoting sustainable regional development.
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