India and Thailand have officially elevated their relationship to a strategic partnership, reinforcing cooperation in trade, security, and cultural exchanges. Following delegation-level discussions, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Thai counterpart, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, emphasized a shared commitment to a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific.

Modi reiterated that India’s ‘Act East’ policy places Thailand at a crucial position, highlighting agreements on MSMEs, handloom, and education. Stressing “development-ism, not expansionism,” he underscored ASEAN centrality and mutual economic progress.

During his visit, Modi also expressed gratitude for Thailand’s tribute to Indian culture, including a Ramayana-themed postage stamp. As part of his regional tour, Modi will now attend the BIMSTEC summit to further bolster cooperation with South Asian leaders.