DILI, 13 may 2022 (TATOLI)– The Thailand government affirmed its interest to expand the bilateral trade and investment with Timor – Leste.
This statement was confirmed by the Ambassador of the Royal Thai Embassy in Timor – Leste, Ekapol Poolpipat, during an interview with Tatoli.
Ambassador Ekapol Poolpipat said Thailand wish to accomplish a rice trade with Timor-Leste and contribute to food security for the people of Timor-Leste: “Occasionally, the National Logistics Center (CLN) and Timor-Leste traders express their interest in buying rice from Thai Rice traders and companies to address food security issues in Timor-Leste,”
“Significantly, the two Governments are now consulting to sign a memorandum of understanding on the rice trade for food security,” Ambassador said.
Ekapol Poolpipat explained that in the field of development, the Royal Thai Government has extended technical and development cooperation to Timor-Leste over the past 20 years in the fields of agriculture, public health, rural development, tourism, education, and human resources development.
“To carry out the continuation of this bilateral cooperation, the two sides are now discussing the next stage of our technical and development cooperation,” He said.
At the same time, Ambassador Ekapol Poolpipat said Thailand has consistently supported Timor-Leste’s aspirations to become an ASEAN Member State adding that, Timor-Leste’s application for ASEAN membership will be considered based on a comprehensive assessment of the Fact-Finding Mission (FFMs).
“We continue our efforts to strengthen Timor-Leste’s capacity and readiness in all aspects. Apart from our bilateral capacity building program, Thailand also supports Timor-Leste’s participation in several ASEAN meetings and activities that will help Timor-Leste familiarize itself with ASEAN’s work,” he added.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Nelia Borges
