PM Modi Presented With 'The World Tipitaka: Sajjhaya Phonetic Edition' By Thailand's Prime Minister

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Thailand on Thursday for a two-day visit to attend the sixth BIMSTEC Summit. Upon landing in Bangkok, he was warmly received by Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Suriya Jungrungreangkit. Later, at the Government House, he was officially welcomed by Thailand's Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra.

In a significant diplomatic gesture, India and Thailand exchanged multiple Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) in the presence of both leaders, further strengthening the partnership between the two nations.

A Special Cultural and Spiritual Gesture

During his visit, PM Modi was presented with The World Tipitaka: Sajjhaya Phonetic Edition by Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. The Tipitaka (Pali) or Tripitaka (Sanskrit) is one of the most sacred Buddhist scriptures, comprising 108 volumes of Lord Buddha's teachings. This special edition, meticulously crafted in Pali and Thai scripts, ensures accurate pronunciation of over nine million syllables. Originally published in 2016 as part of Thailand's World Tipitaka Project, it commemorates the 70-year reign of King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) and Queen Sirikit.

Expressing gratitude for the gift, PM Modi stated, "PM Shinawatra gifted me the Tipitaka, and on behalf of 'Buddha Bhoomi' India, I accept it with folded hands." He highlighted the deep spiritual ties between India and Thailand, recalling that over four million devotees in Thailand had the opportunity to have a darshan of Lord Buddha's holy relics, which were sent from India last year. He further announced that sacred relics discovered in Gujarat's Aravalli region in 1960 would also be sent to Thailand for public viewing.

Strengthening Bilateral Relations

Addressing the gathering, PM Modi emphasized Thailand's importance in India's Act East Policy and Indo-Pacific vision. He announced that India and Thailand had decided to elevate their relations into a strategic partnership. Discussions also focused on establishing direct security dialogues between both nations' agencies.

Modi expressed appreciation for Thailand's cooperation in repatriating Indian victims of cybercrime and reaffirmed India's commitment to jointly combat human trafficking and illegal migration. He also emphasized increased cooperation in sectors like tourism, culture, and education, particularly between India's northeastern states and Thailand. Trade, investment, and business exchanges were also key topics of discussion.

A Warm Reception by the Indian and Thai Communities

PM Modi was welcomed with enthusiasm by the Indian community in Bangkok, who chanted Vande Mataram and Jai Hind upon his arrival at his hotel. At Don Mueang Airport, members of the Sikh community performed Bhangra, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.

The Thai community also extended a traditional welcome by chanting mantras, while the Sikh community presented PM Modi with a memento of the Golden Temple. The ISKCON community gifted him a copy of the Bhagavad Gita as a token of respect.

Additionally, PM Modi witnessed a mesmerizing performance of Ramakien, the Thai adaptation of the Ramayana, showcasing the deep-rooted cultural ties between India and Thailand.

Next Stop: Sri Lanka

After concluding his visit to Thailand, PM Modi will embark on his first visit to Sri Lanka since the election of its new president. His tour underscores India's commitment to strengthening regional ties and cultural diplomacy across South and Southeast Asia.