Bangkok--Dec 16--Asian Games PR/Information Centre "Since Thailand has shown the ability to arrange the 13th Asain Games, I hope that in the near future, Thailand will have a chance to hold the Olympic Games. There haven't been any preparations yet because all this depends on Thailand's future development," stated Mr. Pitak Intrawityanunt, Minister to the Prime Minister's Office and Chairman of the Tourism Authority of Thailand at a press conference held at Muang Thong Thani Press Center today, December 12. Welcoming all participants to the 13th Asian Games, Mr. Pitak added in his opening comments that, "we are very pleased to see many press and media participating in the even and hope you will bring the message back to your countries. Thai people always welcome visitors from all over tha world and the Games are a great opportunity to show you many places in Thailand. I hope you will com back for your next visit." The Asian Games have helped to bring more than 700,000 people to the Kingkom. This includes officials and visitors who came before the games to inspect facilities and the many who are here at the Games. Thailand has been working to relax visa rules and regulations to make it easier for many Asian neighbors to visit Thailand. These changes can be seen in the increase in toursit arrivals from countries such as India,China, and Thiwan. Until now, Thailand is very pleased with the results of the Asian Games not ot mention the Amazing Thailand 1998/1999 Campaign, "we expect the number of tourist arrivals this year to reach 7.7 million as a minimum," he added. Also, next year Thailand will be celebrating the King's 72nd birthday, "and as His Majesty is in the hearts of 60 million Thais, this will be a very important event," he said, "there will be many activities, providing better facilities and many more functions. This is sure to attract both Thais and visitors from other countries to join in this important event." Mr. Pitak said that 13th Asian Games has created good publicity for Thailand and a chance for people around the world to know more about the country. This will also be great advantage for the Tourism Authorityof Thailand to invite tourists to come back and visit. For further information, please contact Asian Games PR / Information Centre Muang Thong Thani Sports Complex 9th Floor, New Geneva Building, Muang Thong Thaini, Chaengwattana Road, Pakkred, Nonthaburi 11120 Tel : (02) 504-1194-8 Fax : (02) 504-1192-3 INTERNET : http://www.asiangames.th, E-mail : add@asiangames.th End.