Burma’s Foreign Minister Aung San Suu Kyi said her government will help Thailand in taking responsibility for the 1.6 million Burmese migrant workers residing in Thailand.

Suu Kyi was speaking yesterday after a meeting with Thai Foreign Minister Don Pramudwinai that was also attended by Burmese President Htin Kyaw.

The Thai foreign minister, who was visiting as a special envoy of Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, is on a two-day formal visit to the country to strengthen bilateral ties and foster cooperation.

In an afternoon press briefing after a 40-minute talk, Suu Kyi praised the Thai government for its support and assistance to migrant workers and its plans to improve laws to better look after them.

Suu Kyi said the Burmese government would take responsibility for its people in Thailand and would not let Bangkok shoulder the burden alone.

Asked if the two countries had any special concerns, Suu Kyi said every issue is of equal importance and she is confident the two nations have a strong will to jointly address problems.

The Thai foreign minister said his government has given importance to social and welfare benefits to Burmese workers in the country.

[related]

According to Don, Burmese workers in Thailand have equal rights to Thai workers in terms of their eligibility to gain access to medical services and have their children receive a state education.

Don said there are 1.59 million registered Burmese workers in Thailand.

He described the visit as a meeting of “neighbours” that touched on their close ties and cooperation.

Don said the Burmese president conveyed his best wishes to Their Majesties the King and the Queen of Thailand, adding the Burmese government was considering Thailand’s invitation to visit.

Don said Thailand also urged Burma to look after Thai investors in the country as they were instrumental to boosting investment.