President brings Asia trip in Thailand

President Mary McAleese has met with Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Sinawatra in Bangkok today as part of a four-day trip to south-east Asia to develop trade and diplomatic ties.

A Thai government spokesperson said Mrs McAleese revealed Irish plans to open an embassy in Thailand, but did not say when.

The nearest Irish Embassy is currently in Kuala Lumpur, the capital of the neighbouring Malaysia.

The Thai premier also asked Mrs McAleese to share Ireland’s knowledge with Thailand to help it develop its software technology sector.

The Irish President and Mr Thaksin later travelled to Hua Hin, 80 miles south-west of Bangkok, for an audience with King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit.

Mrs McAleese is also due to preside over the opening of the Asia-Ireland Chamber of Commerce in Bangkok today and to meet with Irish businessmen working in the country.

Tomorrow, the President is due to fly to the southern beach resort of Phuket, where she will preside over the opening ceremony of the Asia-Irish Games, an event organised for young Irish people living in Asia.

On Sunday, she will travel to Malaysia, where she will end the official visit.