Myanmar to grant concession for Dawei project's first phase

In his weekly speech Friday, Prayut said Thailand and Myanmar agreed that the project would be of benefit to both countries after discussions with President Thein Sein. 

Prayut had made a two-day visit to Myanmar last week and met its president. 

“But this [the concession granting] is another matter, one that concerns investors,” he said, adding that Thailand needed to come to an agreement about how to create interest in the project among foreign investors. 

“It is likely that many countries will join in to invest in the project, Japan being one of them,” Prayut said.

He said Thailand was considered Myanmar’s key partner with the highest trade and investment value after China.

On the matter of economic cooperation, there were discussions about developing transport linkages on certain routes such as the Myawaddy-Tanaosri-Kawkareik Road and the construction of the second Friendship Bridge that would link Mae Sot to Myawaddy. 

The parties discussed the development of special economic zones at border areas to promote investment and create employment. Both countries’ citizens stand to benefit if these links with Myanmar become realised. This effort will be effective if the undertaking can be pursued simultaneously by both parties, he said.