Japan extends assistance to post-flood reconstruction
Japan is considering a grant worth 7-8 billion yen to Thailand, to finance the elevation of Bangkok's outer ringroad and the water gate construction at Pasak River.
Japan revealed the intention to help Thailand reconstruct flood-management infrastructure during the meeting between Thailand's Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra and Japan's Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda on March 7, according to www.thaigov.go.th.
Yingluck detailed the Thai government's actions to prevent another flood disaster and thanked the Japanese government for assistance, particularly through Japan International Cooperation Agency's assistance in revising the flood-management master plan.
During the meeting, both leaders showed support to the Japan – Thailand Economic Partnership Agreement (Jtepa), which could be a major tool to strengthen economic ties. Thailand also proposed the increase in bilateral trade to US$100 billion in 2017, when both countries are celebrating the 130th relationship.
Aside from post-flood reconstruction, Japan also showed interest in joining the development of other infrastructure - from the rail to telecommunication area.
Noda was also invited to join the World Economic Forum on East Asia 2012, to be hosted by Thailand in May. While Thailand seeks Japanese support for its bid to host the World Expo 2020, Japan seeks Thailand's support for its bid to host the Olympics in the same year.
