PM Transcripts

' IPRIME
MINISTER
FOR MEDIA 23 August 1989
I am pleased to announce that the Prime Minister of
Thailand, General Chatichai Choonhavan,, will visit Australia
as a guest of my Government from 29. August tb 3 September
1989. This will be the second visit, by Prime . Minister
Chatichai, his first as Prime Minister, and. the second by a
serving Thai Prime Minister. Prime Minister, hatichai will
be accompanied by his wife,, Khunying, Boonrue , Choonhavan.
Australia values its close relations with Thailand, an
important regional neighbour which ; is curre tly achieving
rapid economic growth. Prime Minister-Chatidhai's visit
provides the ideal opportunity to maintain and advance the
momentum on important issues which was achieved during my
visit to Thailand in February this year.
Thailand is an important member of; ASEANIwhlch plays a key
role in the political stability and economid development of
the region. Australia cooperates closely with ASEAN to build
upon the many interests we share in terms o; stability,
peace and economic development. Prime Minister Chatichai's
visit will provide the opportunity to exchange views on
these mutual concerns.
Our discussions will encompass the developmnt of our
economic and trade relationship, other regional and
international issues, including Cambodia, . and regional
economic cooperation.
A number of senior Ministers and a group ofibusinessmen will
accompany Prime Minister Chatichai. In addition to my talks
with him, there will be discussions among senior Ministers
on both sides. Prime Minister Chatichai wil) also address
the Australia/ Thai Business Council dinner in Sydney.
During his stay, Prime Minister Chatichai will visit Darwin,
Canberra and Sydney. 1299 0
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