Both are the only two remaining Asean countries that the prime minister has not yet paid a visit since his appointment on October 1.

Surayud will go to Brunei in the morning where he would be granted an audience with Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah who is also prime minister. Brunei government will host a luncheon for Surayud.

Sources said Surayud will brief Brunei about the political situations in Thailand and the government's attempts to solve the violence in the southern provinces by peaceful means.

Thai prime minister will also explain Thailand's attempts to promote roles of moderate Muslims in Thailand and in the world community so that Muslim teachings would not be distorted.

More economic cooperation would also be on the agenda, particularly opportunity for both countries to increase trade volumes.

Surayud will then leave for Singapore where he would meet Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew and President SR Nathan.

Surayud will hold a discussion with Singapore's Prime Minister Lee Hsein Loong to strenthen the relations and cooperation.

Regarding Singapore as an one of important partnership, Surayud will discuss about possibility to increase number of Thai workers in Singapore and cooperation to provide protection for the workers. As of now, there is about 50,000 Thai workers in Singapore.

Singapore government will host dinner for the Thai premier and his team. Surayud will return to Bangkok in the evening.

The Nation