October 9, 2014 – Thai Prime Minister General Prayuth Chan-Ocha’s visit to Myanmar is not entirely surprising – Thailand is Myanmar’s second largest foreign investor, with over US$10 billion being invested into the country. These investments range from construction to oil and gas.
Last minute preparations to welcome the Thai Prime Minister is still underway in the capital Nay Pyi Taw. The Thai leader is expected to be in Myanmar for less than 24 hours but he will meet with Myanmar President Thein Sein, as well as other top government officials. The Thai leader is also expected to meet with his long-time friend and military counterpart, General Min Aung Hlaing, who is the commander in chief in this country.
Several issues could be up for discussion between the leaders of the two countries – for example, the resumption of the developmental project in the Dawei special economic zone, located in the southern part of Myanmar. Another issue for discussion is the two Myanmar workers who have been accused of murdering two British tourists on a Thai island resort last month. The two leaders are also expected to discuss how to further their political, economic as well as social relations between these two close neighbours.
After Nay Pyi Taw, the Thai leader is expected to head to Yangon where he will meet with the Thai community living in this country. The Thai leader is also expected to return to Nay Pyi Taw soon, where he will most likely attend the ASEAN summit to be held later this year in mid-November.