Bangkok, April 3 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday expressed his appreciation to the Indian diaspora in Thailand for their warm welcome and described witnessing the Ramakien, the Thai rendition of the Ramayana, as an enriching experience.

Immediately after his arrival in Bangkok for the BIMSTEC Summit, PM Modi attended a performance of the Ramakien, a cultural event that highlights the profound historical and civilizational connections between India and Thailand. Upon reaching his hotel, he was welcomed with a lively Garba performance, a traditional dance from his home state of Gujarat.

Numerous members of the Indian diaspora, adorned in traditional attire, assembled to greet him, including representatives from the Sikh, Garhwali, and Gujarati communities.

In a post on X, PM Modi wrote, “Grateful for the warm welcome by the Indian community in Bangkok. India and Thailand share a deep-rooted cultural bond that continues to flourish through our people. Heartening to see this connection reflected so strongly here.”

The Prime Minister also praised the Ramakien performance, stating, “a cultural connect like no other!”

“Witnessed a captivating performance of the Thai Ramayana, Ramakien. It was a truly enriching experience that beautifully showcased the shared cultural and civilizational ties between India and Thailand,” he shared on X.

“The Ramayana truly continues to connect hearts and traditions across so many parts of Asia,” he added.

PM Modi was received at the Bangkok airport by Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit along with other senior officials. The Indian diaspora welcomed him with chants of “Modi Modi” and “Vande Mataram,” underscoring the strong people-to-people connections between the two countries.

The Prime Minister is in Thailand for the 6th BIMSTEC Summit, during which he will engage with regional leaders on Thursday and Friday regarding crucial areas of cooperation among the Bay of Bengal nations. He is also set to conduct bilateral discussions with Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to further bolster India-Thailand relations.

India plays a vital role in the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC), serving as a key driver of regional integration. PM Modi's participation at the summit is anticipated to enhance India's leadership within this framework, reaffirming its dedication to regional advancement.

BIMSTEC is a regional coalition comprising seven member states—five from South Asia (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka) and two from Southeast Asia (Myanmar and Thailand). It acts as a crucial link between the two regions, with India being the largest and most influential member, actively shaping the group's agenda and promoting collaboration.

After completing his engagements in Thailand, PM Modi will proceed to Sri Lanka for the second part of his tour.