MANILA, May 23 (TNA) – Thai Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej said on Friday he had assured Philippine President Gloria Arroyo of Thailand's willingness to sell rice at a reasonable price for the sake of the amicable relationship of both countries.

Speaking after a welcoming ceremony at Malacañang Palace, the official residence of the President of the Philippines,on Thursday, the first day of his two-day official visit, the Thai premier said he had discussed with the Philippine leader the proposed purchase of rice from Thailand.

"I suggest if the Philippines wants to increase rice stocks, it can buy the rice at a reasonable price under the normal procedure.

"But should there be a rice shortage, it can count on diplomatic channels and ministerial-level negotiations to purchase rice immediately. We are willing to sell the rice at an amicable relationship-based price," he said.

Thailand is the world's largest rice exporter.

Mr. Samak took the opportunity to present aromatic Thai durians to the Philippine president since he knew it is her favourite fruit.

The Thai premier later visited a public market in Manila and asked vendors about the price of jasmine fragrant rice.

He also bought ingredients for a Thai dish that he planned to cook for the Thai embassy staff.

Mr. Samak emphasised the importance of strengthening bilateral relations of both countries, which would mark the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations next year.

He said he invited the Philippine president to attend the ASEAN Summit to be held in Thailand in December.

Other key issues discussed include the natural disaster in Myanmar and what the Thai government had done to help Cyclone Nargis victims. (TNA)-E005

By TNA On 23 May 2008

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