On 4 May 2012, Mr. Bede Gilbert Corry, Ambassador of New Zealand to Thailand, paid a courtesy call on Foreign Minister Surapong Tovichakchaikul on the occasion of his completion of tenure in Thailand.
Foreign Minister Surapong expressed his appreciation for the Ambassador’s efforts in strengthening the relations between the two countries. He also expressed his gratitude to the Government of New Zealand for the humanitarian assistance extended to Thailand during the flood crisis.
At the bilateral level, Foreign Minister Surapong also believed that the visit of the Foreign Minister of New Zealand to Thailand in July would strengthen bilateral relations, as well as expand new areas of cooperation. The visit would also be an opportunity to review existing bilateral frameworks and maximize the potential of the ASEAN—Australia—New Zealand Free Trade Agreement. In this regard, both Thai and New Zealand Prime Ministers agreed to increase cooperation in trade and investment, as well as strengthen economic partnership.
Foreign Minister Surapong also expressed his appreciation towards New Zealand for providing scholarships to Thai teachers to further their studies in the field of English teaching.
On this occasion, the Ambassador expressed his appreciation on the close and cordial relations between the two countries and commended Thailand’s fast recovery after the great flood crisis. The Ambassador also expressed his gratitude towards the Government of Thailand for the assistance and support during New Zealand’s earthquake. The assistance and support in the time of need underscored the positive relations between the two countries.
For further information, please contact the Press Division, Department of Information, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Tel.02-6435170, Fax.02-6435169, E-mail: div0704@mfa.go.th