Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva stressed the need for Asia and the Middle East to become strategic partners in the interdependent world, as cooperation between the two regions will bring greater trade and business opportunities for the peoples of both regions.
Delivering the opening statement at the inauguration of the 3rd Asia-Middle East Dialogue (AMED III) on Wednesday, Mr Abhisit emphasised that Asia and Middle East now are the major sources of the world’s trade and economy; therefore, such complementary potential will bring greater trade and business opportunities for the peoples of both regions.

He added that food security is high on Thailand’s agenda and Thailand is ready to work with AMED member countries to develop joint investments in both the agro- and food processing industries.
via Thai PM stresses need for Asia, Middle East as strategic partners.
MIDDLE EAST: Arrivals in January – November 2010 grew by a strong 21.73% to 534,844 with all markets showing a positive growth, especially Iran. Main markets like Israel and the UAE have continued to do well. However, arrivals from Kuwait and Saudi Arabia have slowed significantly with respective declines of -6.33% and -23.62%.
Thailand has maintained a strict neutrality and maintains good relations with the Arab and Islamic world, where it enjoys a good reputation as a value-for-money destination.