Suu Kyi visit brings hope to Myanmar community in Thailand

Myanmar's migrant workers, refugees, exile activists and ethnic groups were excited ahead of pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi's visit to Thailand. (nationmultimedia.com)

They said her attending a high-profile forum here raised hopes of a future of peace, democracy and reconciliation in their home country.

Thailand was the right place for her first international trip in 24 years, they said, as it would give her a chance to meet many people from Myanmar. She is here until Sunday.

"This visit is more important for strengthening ties between the Burmese democratic opposition and Thailand. It's also an acknowledgement for border-based ethnic groups, refugees and migrants that they are not alone," activist Soe Aung said.

Suu Kyi was invited to the World Economic Forum on East Asia to meet leading international business figures and express her vision for reform and the future of her country.

Foreign investors looking for business opportunities want to hear from her about Myanmar's political development. Migrant workers in Mahachai will be the first group she will meet today.