Despite the stronger relationship between Thailand and North Korea, Thai government conveyed that they are not ready yet to set up a diplomatic compound in the capital of the hermit country.
“To build an embassy in any country is a good sign but all related processes must be carefully considered, including staff and budgets,” Thai Foreign Minister Tanasak Patimapragorn said during
However, relationship between the two countries is growing stronger. During the visit of North Korea’s Foreign Minister, Ri Su-Yong, on Monday (10/8), the two countries have agreed to increase trade volume as well as discussed bilateral cooperation in information technology, health, education and other regional issues. Thailand is also willing to bridge North Korea with the rest of the world especialy those countries that it has conflict with.
During this visit, Mr Ri also passed on good wishes from North Korean leader Kim Jong-un to Her Majesty Queen Sirikit for her 83rd birthday.
Regarding diplomatic relationship between these two countries, the disappearance of Ms. Anocha Panjoy, a Thai national who was reportedly abducted from Macau to North Korea in 1978, and North Korea’s rice debt payment are two crucial issues to be settled. The former issue was discussed in Monday visit. Mr Ri convinced Mr Tanasak that North Korea’s authority will follow up the case.
Thailand is one of five ASEAN countries that has not had diplomatic mission in North Korea. The other four are Brunei Darussalam, Myanmar, the Philippines, and Singapore.
