Thailand and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are both working hard to get a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) so they may strengthen their political and economic ties. By laying the groundwork for improved cooperation across a range of areas, this agreement hopes to strengthen bilateral commerce and cooperation between the countries.
UAE and Thailand Pursue a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement
In a bid to foster stronger diplomatic and economic relationships, both the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Thailand are actively pursuing a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). This agreement aims to bolster bilateral trade and cooperation between the nations, setting the stage for enhanced collaboration across various sectors.
Thailand recently made headlines by extending its visa-free entry program, offering tourists from India and Taiwan the opportunity to visit the country without a visa until November 11, 2024. This decision, which comes as part of Thailand's efforts to stimulate tourism and economic growth, reflects the nation's commitment to fostering international relations.
Extending Hospitality to Select Countries
In a parallel move, Sri Lanka has also announced an extension of its visa-free entry facilities, welcoming visitors from select countries, including China, Russia, Japan, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and India. The extension, valid until May 31, 2024, underscores Sri Lanka's dedication to attracting tourists and boosting its hospitality sector.
The decision to extend visa-free travel to Indian tourists by both Thailand and Sri Lanka comes in response to a notable surge in visitors from India. Tourism Authority of Thailand officials reported a significant uptick in Indian tourist arrivals, with a remarkable 28.2% increase observed between November 2023 and April 2024 compared to the previous year. This surge underscores India's growing importance as a key market for Thailand's tourism industry.
Similarly, Sri Lanka's move to extend visa-free entry aligns with its broader strategy to revitalize the tourism sector. While the visa exemption allows visitors to stay in Sri Lanka for up to 30 days, travelers are required to apply for their visa online via the official website before arrival. This streamlined process aims to facilitate smoother entry procedures and enhance the overall visitor experience.
The extension of visa-free entry by Thailand and Sri Lanka reflects a shared commitment to promoting tourism and fostering closer ties with key partner countries. As both nations continue to prioritize economic growth and international cooperation, initiatives such as the CEPA between the UAE and Thailand serve as testament to their dedication to strengthening diplomatic and trade relations on a global scale.