Paris: The Prime Minister of Thailand, Anutin Charnvirakul, engaged in pivotal discussions with French President Emmanuel Macron to fortify Thai-French relations, setting the stage for a strategic partnership aimed at enhancing economic and security cooperation. Central to their dialogue was the pursuit of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between Thailand and the European Union, a goal that both leaders are committed to advancing.
According to Thai News Agency, the meeting took place in the esteemed setting of the French Presidential Palace, where President Macron hosted Prime Minister Anutin in a convivial dinner. The discussions, as summarized by Ms. Rachada Thanadirek, Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, focused on several key areas of collaboration.
Firstly, both leaders emphasized the importance of promoting trade and investment, particularly in high-value sectors such as alternative energy, aerospace and aviation, smart power transmission, and AI infrastructure. These industries, where the French private sector exhibits significant expertise, present promising opportunities for bilateral investment. French companies have expressed interest in expanding their operations in Thailand, while France encourages Thai investments within its borders.
Additionally, the negotiations for the Thailand-European Union Free Trade Agreement (Thailand-EU FTA) were highlighted as a crucial policy objective for the Thai government. With aspirations to finalize negotiations by the year's end, Prime Minister Anutin expressed gratitude for France's unwavering support, anticipating that the FTA will unlock substantial economic opportunities for both nations.
The dialogue also extended to enhancing security cooperation, particularly in the realm of cybersecurity. Both countries participate in the Cobra Gold exercise, and there is a mutual commitment to bolstering efforts against online threats and cybercrime-a move that aligns with the Thai government's global strategy to combat digital threats through international collaboration.
In addressing regional issues, Prime Minister Anutin reaffirmed Thailand's commitment to sovereignty, peace, and international law principles. On the topic of the tripartite relationship with Cambodia and Myanmar, he noted the discontinuation of MOU 44 in favor of adhering to international law, specifically UNCLOS, to resolve maritime disputes through dialogue. The ongoing land border discussions with Cambodia will adhere to the joint statement agreed upon last year, with an expectation of demonstrated sincerity from Cambodia.
As a significant outcome of the meeting, both countries agreed to advance the Joint Action Plan, which aims to strengthen the Thai-French Partnership from 2026-2028, marking a pivotal step in elevating bilateral relations to a strategic level.