The Philippines has shown interest towards importing more agricultural products from Thailand after a bilateral meeting between the leaders of both countries.

According to the National News Bureau of Thailand, during a joint press conference held after a meeting with President Benigno S. Aquino III of the Philippines , Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra expressed confidence that her official Jan. 19 visit to the Philippines will contribute to strengthening ties between the two nations.

She also requested the Philippines to facilitate investment procedures for the Thai private sector and to solve the issue of double taxation, which has been a major obstacle for Thai businesses wishing to invest in the island country.

Additionally, the two parties agreed on the topic of food security while the Philippines expressed interest in increasing its import of agricultural products from Thailand , especially rice and fruits. Thus, Yingluck has invited the Filipino Agriculture Minister to visit Thailand for further discussions on import possibilities and measures to reduce trade barriers.

The Filipino President stated that the Philippines is ready to reinforce both its bilateral and multilateral cooperation with Thailand , particularly in trade and investment. He added that the Philippines will proceed with the reduction of barriers to facilitate commerce between the two nations./.