Thai PM begins

Thai PM begins visit to Laos

BANGKOK (AFP): Thai Prime Minister Banharn Silpa-archa yesterday led a 43-strong delegation on visits to neighboring countries Laos and Cambodia, officials said.

The prime minister was paying a two-day visit to Laos focusing on economic ties between two Southeast Asian countries including sealing a deal to buy electricity from Laos.

It is his first trip to Laos since assuming office after last July's general elections. Banharn has completed his familiarization visit to fellow ASEAN member states early this month. He will continue his trip to Cambodia today.

In Laos, five key ministers, including Foreign Minister Amnuay Virawan and Communications Minister Wan-Muhamad-nor Mata, who will oversee negotiations on construction of a highway linking Thailand with its landlocked neighbor, Laos, and with Vietnam.