<h1>India and Thailand Form Strategic Partnership, Prioritizing Indo-Pacific Cooperation and Development Over Expansionism</h1> India and Thailand elevated their relations to a strategic partnership during Prime Minister Modi's visit to Bangkok. Both countries affirmed support for a free, open, inclusive, rules-based Indo-Pacific order and emphasized development over expansionism. The leaders discussed cooperation in tourism, culture, education, trade, investment, and business exchanges, with special focus on India's northeastern states. Agreements were made for MSME, handloom, and handicraft cooperation. Modi highlighted Thailand's importance in India's 'Act East' Policy and Indo-Pacific vision, noting their centuries-old cultural and spiritual connections through Buddhism, Ramayana, and Sanskrit-Pali influences. Modi later attended the 6th BIMSTEC summit.