Thailand's deputy prime minister said Tuesday he wants to see greater Japanese investment in Thailand and expressed optimism that his nation will one day join the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade pact.

Speaking with Japanese media the day before his first official visit to Japan since his appointment as deputy prime minister — a portfolio that includes heading the country's economic policy — Somkid Jatusripitak said he wants Japan to support Thailand's membership of TPP. He noted, however, that there are obstacles to membership.

"TPP is the coalition that will bring a lot of benefits to trade and investment. When we see the benefits of it, we can solve the existing difficulties step by step. If we set the obstacle as the principal, then we cannot do anything," Somkid said. "TPP is an extension of the connectivity in Asia to other regions in the world. It will bring about absolute benefits to the region."