Thailand supported Lanka in times of need - Minister Basil Rajapaksa

Thailand supported Sri Lanka at international forums, especially at the recently concluded UNCHR sessions. Longstanding historical relations between the two countries strengthened as Thailand supported Sri Lanka when the country faced critical issues in the international arena, Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa said.

Minister Rajapaksa said so when the new ambassador of Thailand to Sri Lanka Poldej Worachat paid a courtesy call on him at the ministry yesterday.

Ambassador Worachat said relations between the two countries have not been confined to economic and political issues.

"Throughout history, the two countries have maintained a close cultural relationship because Theravada Buddhism has enlightened the lives of the people of both countries. Buddhism is the main reason behind the close cultural relations," he said.

Minister Rajapaksa said Sri Lanka has a rich agricultural history as is evident by the tanks built by kings, but the occupancy by western powers destroyed the rich heritage and Sri Lanka become a rice importing country dependent on others for her food items.

"Sri Lanka has now become a rice exporting country. The country will export its first shipment of maize production this month," the minister said.

When Sri Lanka initiated the maize development programme four years ago, the biggest problem was to get the required seeds. However the Thai government provided them, he said thanking the Thai government.

Minister Rajapaksa and the Thai ambassador discussed ways and means of improving economic relations between the two countries. They agreed to have close cooperation on road development, agriculture, tourism, small industries and handicraft development, fishing and textile sector development.

The minister said Sri Lanka will give priority to highway development while safeguarding the interests of the people.

The northern highway is under construction and will link Colombo, Kurunegala, Kandy and Trincomalee. The government will not destroy the country's hill area and will link Kandy through Kurunegala not affecting the mountain or the environment, he said.