Timor-Leste´s President meets PM Abhisit

BANGKOK, 28 April 2010 (NNT) – Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva accompanied by Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Suwit Khunkitti today welcomed President of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, Dr Jose Ramos-Horta who paid a visit to the country from 28 to 30 April 2010.

Deputy Secretary-General to the Prime Minister and Acting Government Spokesperson, Dr Panitan Wattanayakorn, summarized the meeting that Mr Abhisit had praised an outstanding growth at 12% of Timor-Leste’s economy in the previous year, stating Thailand’s readiness to invest in Timor-Leste infrastructure development.

Timor-Leste’s government had focused on expanding the country’s infrastructure, including public communication, transportation, utility and electricity. The country is preparing to increase investment in energy efficiency technology.

Meanwhile, bilateral ties with ASEAN region were highlighted by President Horta as he expressed his intention to nominate Timor-Leste as part of ASEAN within 2012.

In addition, the Timor-Leste’s President stated understandings on the current political situations and praised the Prime Minister’s leadership and his efforts to patiently seek peaceful resolutions. The Prime Minister stressed that political problems must be solved by political means, with regards to the public safety and security.

Conversation concluded with the President’s opinion toward the launch of Asia Summit on Climate Change. He stated that half of the world population resided in Asia and the world economic leaders such as China, India and ASEAN could play a big role in resolving the worsening climate crisis.