Thai delegation study trade potential
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, March 27, 2014: A Thailand delegation including representatives of logistic companies visited Imphal and made a direct assessment of the State's transport infrastructure as well as trade and commerce potential.

The Thai delegates also suggested introduction of regular flight service between Mandalay and Imphal.

Speaking to media persons at his New Secretariat office this afternoon, Commerce and Industries Commissioner L Lakher said that the Thai delegation led by Royal Thai Embassy's Minister/Counsellor (Commercial) Tharadol Thongruang included representatives of 15 logistic companies.

The delegation arrived at Imphal from Guwahati last evening by road along Asian Highway-2.They also held a meeting with Commerce and Industries Minister K Govindas.

After the meeting, the Thai delegates left for Moreh for their onward journey to Myanmar.

The main purpose of the visit was to make an assessment of the State's transport infrastructure and the potential of bilateral trade between India and Thailand through Moreh and Myanmar.

The Commissioner further informed that the delegation would go up to Mandalay by road.

During the meeting, Minister Govindas apprised the delegation about the State Government's different initiatives on connectivity, land customs and the ICP.

He informed the Thai delegates that BRTF would complete construction work of the 62 Kms long Yangzi road between Kalewa and Monywa by 2016. Govindas also proposed a Manipur-Thailand car rally.

On their part, the Thai delegates said that there is regular flight service between Bangkok and Mandalay and it would more convenient to introduce a regular flight service between Imphal and Mandalay instead of direct flight connectivity between Imphal and Bangkok.

The two sides further deliberated on cultural exchange, people to people contact and cooperation in the field of health and education between Manipur and Thailand, conveyed L Lakher.

He said that six Thai students are currently doing PhD in Manipur University and three more students may enrol themselves in Manipur University for PhD course this year.

Minister Govindas mistook one girl Thai student for a Manipuri girl on seeing the girl wear a phanek (sarong).

Some Thai students who are studying in Manipur University called on the Minister together with the Thai delegates today.

In addition to medical visa, the State Government has asked the Government of India to issue general visa to Myanmar nationals who wish to visit Manipur, the Commissioner said in response to a query put up by reporters.

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