Thailand has been ranked the 10th most powerful nation in Asia, according to the Asia Power Index 2023, published by the Lowy Institute, an independent, nonpartisan, international policy think tank located in Sydney, Australia.

Deputy Secretary-General to the Prime Minister for Political Affairs and Acting Government Spokesperson Anucha Burapachaisri said that the Asia Power Index scores 26 countries’ comprehensive power, based on a weighted average across eight thematic measures, namely economic capability, military capability, resilience, future resources, economic relationships, defense networks, diplomatic influence, and cultural influence.

Thailand’s score is 18.7. The top ten countries for overall power include the United States (80.7), China (72.5), Japan (37.2), India (36.3), Russia (31.6), Australia (30.9), South Korea (29.5), Singapore (25.1), Indonesia (19.4), and Thailand (18.7).

Despite falling scores in some categories because of the COVID-19 situation, Thailand’s strongest measure is economic relationships. The country improved most in the future resources and diplomatic influence categories.

Mr. Anucha said that, in the overall picture, Thailand is more powerful in this region than expected. He quoted Prime Minister General Prayut Chan-o-cha as saying that Thailand’s ranking in the Asia Power Index 2023 reflected confidence in Thailand on the global stage. This is a result of the Government’s efforts in driving various policies for the country and the people.

Mr. Anucha said that Thailand has great potential in all dimensions, such as resources, and that the country emphasizes balanced development and the use of energy on a sustainable basis. Thailand has also laid firm foundations to enhance its competitiveness, as well as developing infrastructure to cope with economic growth and accommodate more trade and investment in the future.