Chennai: India has been identified by Thailand as the hub for its "enhanced economic co-operation in South Asia", Chirasak Thanesnant, Ambassador of Thailand to India said on July 16.

"In the same spirit Thailand is being considered as an economic hub for India to expand its economic interests in East Asia," he said at the inaugural function of the Thailand exhibition 2003 and food/cultural show at the Chennai trade centre.

Stating that India was a clearly strong strategic partner for Thailand in the wake of liberalisation, greater economic co-operation between the two countries in the coming years would serve as a catalyst for the economic prosperity of the two countries.

He said that his country was committed to generate business interactions between potential private companies of the two countries for the economic growth of the two countries, adding that it was timely and appropriate to concretise Thailand's 'look West' policy and India's 'look East' policy.

Inaugurating the exhibition, the Tamil Nadu Industries Minister N Nagentheran called for increased investments by Thailand in the state especially in food processing industries.

There were about 12 joint venture companies in Tamil Nadu with Thailand with their total investment amounting to Rs 374 crore, he said.

PTI