India, Thailand to strengthen cooperation in field of counter terrorism

India and Thailand have agreed to strengthen cooperation in the field of counter terrorism and intelligence sharing through expedited follow-up of each other's requests for legal assistance.

"The two Prime Ministers welcomed the signing of the bilateral Extradition Treaty which would provide a legal basis for bilateral cooperation in dealing with elements acting against national interests. Both leaders reiterated their resolve to significantly enhance bilateral cooperation in combating terrorism, organized crime, drug trafficking, counterfeiting and human trafficking. They agreed to strengthen cooperation in the field of counter terrorism and intelligence sharing through expedited follow-up of each other's requests for legal assistance," said a joint statement on Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh's visit to Thailand.

Dr. Singh and his Thai counterpart Yingluck Shinawatra appreciated the close interactions and regular exchanges between the Armed Forces of Thailand and India including the official visit of the Thai Defence Minister to India in December 2012, the conduct of the Defence Dialogue in February 2013 and the regular Coordinated Patrol (CORPATs) conducted by the Indian Navy and the Royal Thai Navy.

"The Thai side also welcomed the visit of the Indian Defence Minister to Thailand in June 2013. Both sides agreed to enhance anti-piracy cooperation, promote security of sea lanes and Coast Guard cooperation to contribute to the maintenance of peace in the region and to work towards ensuring safety and security of navigation in the Indian Ocean. Both sides agreed to continue providing scholarships and training programmes for the sharing of expertise," the joint statement said.

Thailand expressed interest in India's defence industry, which has competitive production and advanced technology.

"Both countries agreed to pursue defence industry collaboration in areas of mutual interest," the joint statement said. .

The two sides also welcomed the deepening of cooperation through the Joint Working Group on Security Cooperation.

"The 7th India-Thailand JWG on Security Cooperation, held in Thailand in July 2012, agreed to expedite the implementation of the five-year programme finalized by the Joint Working Group. Progress on the implementation of the Work Programme will be reported at the next JWG meeting, to be hosted by India," the joint statement said.