Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs of Thailand Sarun Charoensuwan and French Senator (Department of Saône-et-Loire, Bourgogne Franche-Compté Region) have commended past developments and agreed to promote bilateral cooperation between Thailand and France.

The French Senator paid a courtesy call on the Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs on 25 August 2023 during his visit to Thailand. They exchanged views on political and economic situations in both countries, as well as regional and global issues.

According to a report from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, both sides exchanged views on political and economic situations in both countries, as well as regional and global issues. They also expressed appreciation for numerous positive developments in Thailand - France relations, particularly following the visit to Thailand of Mr. Emmanuel Macron, President of France, to attend the APEC Economic Leaders’ Week (AELW) as Guest of the Chair in November last year.

The Thai side reaffirmed its commitment to follow up the outcomes of the French presidential trip and pursue the initiatives outlined in the Roadmap for Thailand - France Relations (2022 - 2024), with an aim to elevate the bilateral relations to Strategic Partnership in 2024. 

Both sides agreed that there remain huge potentials in trade and investment, innovation cooperation, particularly following the Thai-French Year of Innovation 2023, as well as expediting the conclusion of the Agreement on Visa Exemption for the Official Passport holders. In addition, they believe that the exchanges of high-level visits would play an important role in strengthening and expanding the existing cordial ties.

On this occasion, the Permanent Secretary also expressed his confidence in France hosting the upcoming Paris 2024 Summer Olympics.

Meanwhile, Deputy Government Spokesperson Ratchada Dhnadirek said that, in June 2023, Prime Minister Gen. Prayut Chan-o-cha had sent two traditional-style Thai silk shirts as a present to the French President. The shirts were designed by the winner of the third Next Big Silk Designer Contest.

The French President also sent a letter thanking Prime Minister Prayut for his kindness and in appreciation of the young Thai designer who created these outstanding silk shirts. The present of the silk shirts was meant to show gratitude to the French President for his appreciation of Thai wisdom and culture when he attended the Thai silk fashion show during the APEC 2022 gala dinner last year.