India and Thailand Discuss Ties in Education,Tourism and Defence

India and Thailand discuss expanding cooperation in education, tourism, trade, defence, Ayurveda and yoga, while exploring stronger parliamentary ties and collaboration in counterterrorism, disaster management and international affairs.

India and Thailand have discussed ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation across trade, tourism, education, defence, Ayurveda and yoga, reaffirming their longstanding relationship and shared commitment to regional development. The discussions focus on expanding collaboration in areas of mutual interest and enhancing parliamentary engagement between the two countries.

The discussions took place during a meeting between Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and Thailand’s Senate President Mongkol Surasajja in New Delhi. The meeting was held on the sidelines of the 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum, which brought together parliamentary leaders from member and partner countries to explore opportunities for stronger cooperation and people-centred development.

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During the meeting, both leaders emphasised the importance of deepening parliamentary relations by sharing experiences, institutional practices and approaches to governance. They also explored opportunities to strengthen collaboration in counterterrorism, disaster management and international affairs, including through the BRICS framework.

Education and tourism emerged as important areas for further engagement, offering opportunities to expand people-to-people exchanges and cultural connections. Cooperation in Ayurveda and yoga also reflects the shared cultural heritage between the two countries and provides scope for promoting traditional wellness practices and cultural tourism.

Defence and security cooperation formed another part of the discussions, with both sides considering ways to strengthen collaboration in addressing common regional challenges. Counterterrorism and disaster management were among the areas identified for closer coordination, supporting broader efforts to maintain regional stability and improve preparedness for emergencies.

Birla highlighted the historical and civilisational links underpinning India-Thailand relations, noting that India's Act East Policy provides fresh momentum to the partnership. The policy seeks to strengthen India's engagement with Southeast Asian countries through economic, strategic and cultural cooperation.

The meeting also underscored the importance of parliamentary diplomacy in advancing bilateral relations. By facilitating regular dialogue and the exchange of best practices, parliamentary engagement can help both countries identify shared priorities and develop approaches to cooperation across multiple sectors.

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Surasajja arrived in New Delhi on October 25 to participate in the two-day 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum, held at the Central Hall of Samvidhan Sadan in the Parliament House complex. The forum provides a platform for legislative leaders to discuss parliamentary cooperation and approaches to development.

The latest discussions reflect India and Thailand's continued efforts to strengthen their strategic partnership through institutional engagement, economic collaboration, cultural exchanges and cooperation on regional security.