Phuket ready for visit by PMs

PHUKET TOWN: Everything is ready for this weekend’s visit to Phuket by Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and his Singaporean counterpart, Goh Chok Tong, Governor CEO Pongpayome Vasaputi said yesterday. The two leaders have no fixed agenda but are expected to discuss a range of regional and bilateral issues in an informal weekend retreat, with a relaxing round of golf as a bonus. Local officials said that all the necessary preparations for the summit were in place with an emphasis on security. Gov Pongpayome added that the high-profile visit was a proud moment for Phuket. A “friendly disposition” was vital in greeting and dealing with members of the Singaporean delegation, he added. PM Goh and his party are due to arrive at 7:30 this evening on a special flight and will be staying at the Sheraton Grand Laguna. Soon after 9 am tomorrow the two leaders will go to Yacht Haven marina to board the cruiser Fortune Elephant. They will hold talks as they sail out into Phang Nga Bay to Koh Mai Ton. On the island PM Thaksin will host lunch at the Piano Bar restaurant. Later in the day, PM Goh will conduct a press conference at Sheraton Grand Laguna before going to Banyan Tree Phuket for dinner. On Sunday the prime ministers will play a round of golf at Blue Canyon before PM Goh heads back to Singapore.