Bangkok: The Prime Minister is visiting Australia and New Zealand to attract major investment to Thailand. The Prime Minister's official visit to these countries opens a significant investment gateway, creating opportunities for the Thai economy.
According to Thai News Agency, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul's visit to Australia from August 17-20, 2026, marks the first official visit by a Thai Prime Minister in 14 years. This visit comes ahead of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and Australia. The primary aim of the visit is to promote cooperation in various sectors, including trade, investment, security, clean energy, science, technology, and innovation. Additionally, the visit seeks to advance the Joint Action Plan on the Thai-Australian Strategic Partnership 2026-2029.
Following the visit to Australia, the Prime Minister will make an official trip to New Zealand from August 20-22, 2026. This visit is the first in 13 years and coincides with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations. The objectives of the visit include elevating relations to a strategic partnership, expanding economic and investment cooperation, and advocating for the resumption of direct flights between Bangkok and Auckland.
In a related development, Thailand denies any US pressure to take sides in the AI competition with China. The Prime Minister clarified that the US's preparations to send letters to allies, demanding they choose sides, are unlikely to affect tariff negotiations. He emphasized that ongoing negotiations are defined by specific conditions, and there is no direct relation to security issues or military support, as confirmed during last week's visit by the US Deputy Secretary of Defense to the White House.