Thai diplomat expects bilateral trade at $1.6 billion in FY22

KARACHI: The Covid-19 pandemic has curtailed the bilateral trade with Pakistan, a Thai diplomat said.

Ambassador of Thailand in Pakistan Chakkrid Krachaiwong said that with the ease in coronavirus cases, the trade volume is anticipated to cross $1.6 billion in the current fiscal year.

Speaking at the ceremony to mark 70 years of diplomatic and trade relationship between the two countries, the Thai ambassador said bilateral trade volumes exceeded $800 million in the last six months.

“The talks on the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between Thailand and Pakistan are progressing, which would enhance the trade volumes,” he said and expressed interest in tourism development.

Talking to newsmen, the Thai diplomat said Pakistan manufactured the best footballs in the world.

“With the cooperation of Pakistan, Thailand is using Thai rubber in footballs, which improved the quality of the product.”

Praising Pakistani cuisines, Krachaiwong said he liked biryani and chicken tikka, while his daughter was fond of malai boti. The foreign diplomat also appreciated the hospitality and generous nature of the local people.

Thai-Pak Business Adviser Arif Suleman said that Thailand is taking keen interest in Pakistan’s tourism sector, adding that the demand for Pakistani fruits is increasing in Thailand, which will increase exports, going forward.

Suleman also acknowledged the efforts of Krachaiwong in promoting bilateral relations between the two countries.

On this occasion, a walk was also organised and a cake was sliced to commemorate the day.