MANAMA: Bahrain yesterday laid out the red carpet for Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra. Close and historic ties were highlighted as His Majesty King Hamad held official talks with the visiting dignitary, in the presence of His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa and Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, wife of His Majesty and president of the Supreme Council of Women.

HRH the Premier was at the forefront of those who welcomed Prime Minister Shinawatra on her arrival earlier in the day at Bahrain International Airport on an official visit to the kingdom at his invitation to hold talks on ways of bolstering ties in all fields.

Present were Deputy Premiers, government ministers, the Qatari ambassador and the dean of diplomatic corps, ambassadors of both countries and Muharraq Governor Salman Bin Hindi.

After a short pause at VIP Hall, HRH the Premier held talks with the kingdom's guest on the outstanding ties between the two countries.

HRH the Premier praised the steady growth of bilateral relations, especially in the fields of trade and investment.

Later, Prime Minister Shinawatra left for Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Hotel and Spa, the official residence of the visiting delegation.

Deputy Premier Shaikh Ali bin Khalifa Al Khalifa heads the convoy of honour to accompany the Thai Premier during the visit.