Indian PM Singh visits Thailand to discuss economic, security issues

Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra (R) and her Indian counterpart Manmohan Singh attend a joint press conference at the Government House in Bangkok, capital of Thailand, May 30, 2013. Manmohan Singh arrived in Bangkok on May 30 for a two-day official visit to enhance bilateral relations between India and Thailand. <Xinhua/Gao Jianjun>

Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh met with his Thai counterpart Thursday on a visit meant to strengthen bilateral ties and connect with the Southeast Asia region.

After arriving in Bangkok, Singh held talks with Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra. They discussed a framework for a free trade agreement and cooperation in infrastructure projects, investments and tourism, as well as scientific and education partnerships and security issues.

Thailand's Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, left, talks with India's counterpart Manmohan Singh at the Government House in Bangkok, Thailand Thursday, May 30, 2013. <AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit>

The two countries signed several memorandums of understanding on issues ranging from extradition and cooperation against money laundering to cultural exchange programs.

Singh’s one-day trip to Thailand follows the exchange of several high-level visits in recent years, as India seeks to strengthen ties with the Southeast Asia region.

Singh arrived in Bangkok after a four-day official visit to Japan. <AP/NEWSis>