Thailand ’s Ambassador to Vietnam , Pisanu Chanvitan, has confirmed that his Government considers Vietnam as an important strategic partner rather than a rival in the region.

Chanvitan said at a press briefing in Hanoi on August 6, prior to an exhibition of Thai products, that businesses from Thailand are interested not only in selling their products to Vietnam, but also in importing products from the country such as coffee and garments, to boost bilateral trade.

The exhibition will take place from August 12-15 displaying high-quality products from 120 Thai businesses, ranging from food, beverages, fruit, household utensils, garments, cosmetics, jewellery, electric appliances, auto parts, bicycles and souvenirs.

Thai airways and travel agents will also use the opportunity to promote their brands and seek out partners at a trade fair, which is part of the exhibition.

“We welcome Vietnamese investment into north-eastern Thailand and pledge to provide you with best possible conditions,” said the Thai diplomat.

Chanvitan revealed that both countries are taking steps to set up a modern bus network that can transport Thai tourists to central Vietnam , adding that Vietnam should streamline entry procedures at its borders to make it more convenient for passengers.

The Thai diplomat highlighted the progress made in bilateral relations in investment and trade over the past decade, which bodes well for the future.

Two-way trade reached 6.1 billion USD in 2009 and is expected to reach 10 billion USD in the near future./.