HRH the Premier was yesterday at the forefront of those who welcomed his Thai counterpart Yingluck Shinawatra upon arrival at Bahrain International Airport.

The Thai Prime Minister is on an official visit to the kingdom at HRH the Premier's invitation to hold talks on ways of bolstering bilateral ties.

Deputy Premiers, Ministers, the Qatari ambassador to Bahrain and head of the diplomatic corps in the kingdom, the two countries' ambassadors and the Muharraq governor were also there.

The convoy of HRH the Premier and his Thai counterpart headed to the Ritz Carlton Hotel, the official residence of the visiting delegation, after a brief stop at the airport's VIP hall.

A convoy of honour, led by Deputy Prime Minister Shaikh Ali bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, was formed to accompany the Thai Premier during her visit.

HRH the Premier welcomed the visit, which, he said, is in line with the continuous contacts and co-ordination distinguishing the two countries' relations.

He also pointed out that the visit will enhance the already advanced level of co-operation between the two kingdoms in all fields, especially trade and investment ones.

HRH the Premier also lauded the steady growth of Bahraini-Thai relations, which, he said, reflects their joint desire to broaden the areas of co-operation between them so as to meet their friendly peoples' aspirations of further progress and prosperity.

He also expressed hope that the official talks between the two sides will yield fruitful results and enhance bilateral collaboration in the public and private sectors.