Development Plans for Provinces in the Lower North and the Upper Northeast (21/9/2018)

The Cabinet has approved proposals for economic and social development in five lower northern provinces, namely Tak, Phitsanulok, Phetchabun, Sukhothai, and Uttaradit, and five upper northeastern provinces, namely Bueng Kan, Loei, Nong Khai, Nong Bua Lamphu, and Udon Thani.

The proposals were submitted to the Cabinet retreat, held in Mueang district, Phetchabun province, on 18 September 2018. One of the proposals involves the linking of the economic corridor, known as \"LIMEC, which stands for \"Luang Prabang Indochina Mawlamyine Economic Cooperation.

This economic corridor is part of the Ayeyawady Chao Phraya Mekong Economic Cooperation Strategy (ACMECS), which is a cooperation framework between Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, , and Vietnam.

The Cabinet agreed to support the development of Phitsanulok , which will be upgraded to an international airport, connecting with neighboring countries in the future. It also approved the development of and Udon Thani International Airport to cope with the growing number of tourists.

The Cabinet agreed to expand organic agricultural areas in the five upper northeastern province and approved the establishment of \"Sabai Dee Excellent Center for Local Development to promote agricultural research and innovation and create higher value for local agricultural products.

24/09/2021 Page 1 กรมประชาสัมพันธ์ These provinces will be developed into a rubber cluster. Rubber development in the five provinces will be carried out on a full-cycle basis, with an emphasis on adding value to rubber products.

Concerning tourism services, a study will be conducted on the upgrading of tourism in the five lower northern provinces through a \"digital platform. The Cabinet also approved infrastructure development to facilitate the travel of visitors to the Sukhothai Historical Park, which is recognized as a World Heritage Site. A study will be undertaken to develop Phetchabun as a Geopark, as well.

Moreover, a master plan will be worked out to develop tourism in seven provinces along the Mekong River. \"Visas on arrival will be issued as a pilot project at the Nong Khai Immigration Checkpoint and Udon Thani International Airport.

24/09/2021 Page 2 กรมประชาสัมพันธ์