Thailand outlines development priorities for upper northeastern region-Xinhua - 新华网

BANGKOK, Nov. 3 (Xinhua) -- Thailand's government has outlined a four-pronged development strategy for the country's upper northeastern region, focusing on agricultural production and trade, cross-border commerce, tourism promotion and comprehensive efforts to combat illicit drugs, Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said Tuesday.

Speaking while summarizing the outcomes of a mobile Cabinet meeting, Anutin said the initiatives aim to increase farmers' incomes, enhance the value of Thai agricultural products, strengthen cross-border connectivity with regional economic corridors and ensure sustainable public safety.

In the agricultural sector, the government plans to enhance the value of processed agricultural products by leveraging the growth of the future food and bio industries, while simultaneously accelerating the development of three major cash crop groups: rice, natural rubber and energy crops.

The government places high priority on developing infrastructure and transport to boost trade, linking Thailand with various countries in the Greater Mekong Subregion through the Northeastern Economic Corridor, including the country's special economic zones and other high-potential areas, Anutin said.

In tourism, the government is set to promote the unique strengths of each province in the Upper Northeast to develop high-quality tourism destinations and attract year-round visitors, ensuring a continuous stream of income for local entrepreneurs and communities, he added.

Anutin said the government was also stepping up efforts to tackle the drug problem, utilizing new technology to enhance anti-drug operations and coordinating with neighboring countries to address the issue more effectively. ■