{"version":"https:\/\/jsonfeed.org\/version\/1","title":"Thailand on Global Stage","home_page_url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th","feed_url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/index\/id\/49","items":[{"id":"03f27a74ccf8c8db4b6aa56319c3e547","title":"Showcasing Chud Thai on Global Stage","content_text":"<p><strong>Chud Thai, or Thai national costume, has been showcased at Le Meurice Hotel in Paris, marking a significant step that reflects the vision of showcasing traditional Thai clothing on the global stage.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Organized by the Department of Cultural Promotion, Ministry of Culture, on 10-11 October 2026, the event highlights the value of Thailand&#39;s cultural heritage, encompassing its history, exquisite master craftsmanship, and the royal court traditions of dressing that have been passed down through generations.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>On 10 October, Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya chaired an academic seminar and knowledge-sharing session on the topic &ldquo;Evolution of Chud Thai and Thai Textiles.&rdquo; The event featured a fashion showcase of all eight styles of the Thai national costume for ladies, or &ldquo;Chud Thai Phra Ratchaniyom&rdquo; (Royally Favored Thai Costume), and three types of &ldquo;Suea Phra Ratchathan (Royally Bestowed Shirt), traditional dress for men. They were designed and tailored by Tirapan and Pa Couture.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>There were also demonstrations of traditional Thai craftsmanship, including <em>sadung khrueang mai<\/em>, an intricate embroidery technique rooted in the ancient Thai royal court, and brocade weaving by Weeratham Trakulngenthai, a National Artist in 2025 in Visual Arts (Fine Craft Design).<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>This event also featured other cultural presentations, including gold brocade displays, gold-thread meshwork, <em>sadung khrueang mai<\/em> embroidery, traditional Thai jewelry making, and floral garland jewelry making.&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>The exhibition supports Thailand&#39;s nomination of &ldquo;Chud Thai: The Knowledge, Craftsmanship and Practices of the Thai National Costume&rdquo; to be inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2026.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>The inscription will be considered at the 21st session of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage in December 2026 in Xiamen, People&#39;s Republic of China.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/49\/iid\/550048","date_published":"2026-10-11T18:59:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/202610111e7d68728ea19b39b2dfa0072a504671192950.jpeg"},{"id":"0307880652da8d3468bfe7166e92b678","title":"Outcomes of the 23rd Thailand-Lao PDR JC Meeting","content_text":"<p><strong>Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sihasak Phuangketkeow paid an official visit to the Lao PDR on 1-2 October 2026. He co-chaired the 23rd Meeting of the Joint Commission (JC) on Bilateral Cooperation between Thailand and Lao PDR with Mr. Thongsavan Phomvihane, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Lao PDR.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>This meeting was the first one in five years, in which the two sides agreed to further advance bilateral cooperation in the following three areas;<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>(1) Political and Security: The two sides agreed to maintain regular exchanges of high-level visits and advance bilateral mechanisms, strengthen security and safety along the border, particularly at the provincial level, as well as enhance cooperation in addressing transnational security threats such as drug trafficking and online scams. In addition, both sides agreed to expedite the implementation of outcomes under the Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) including the joint survey and demarcation of the boundary.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>(2) Economic and Connectivity: The two sides agreed to increase trade and transport facilitation in order to achieve the bilateral trade volume of USD 11 billion by 2027, accelerate the integration of Thailand&rsquo;s connectivity with Lao PDR both in terms of infrastructure and facilitation of regulation in order to increase the transport of passengers and goods from Thailand to Lao PDR and the wider region. Both sides also reaffirmed their partnership on energy security, including through cooperation under the ASEAN Power Grid, in response to growing global energy uncertainties.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>(3) Social and Development: Thailand reiterated its support for the Lao PDR&rsquo;s smooth graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status in November 2026.&nbsp; The two sides agreed to further deepen cooperation to enhance the well-being of their people and foster closer people-to-people ties through key initiatives, including through the 3rd Thailand - Lao PDR Development Cooperation Programme (2026 &ndash; 2029) of TICA, as well as collaboration in education, healthcare and tourism. Both sides also agreed to enhance cooperation in addressing environmental challenges, particularly transboundary haze (PM2.5) and water management.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>On this occasion, the Deputy Prime Ministers and Ministers of Foreign Affairs of both sides witnessed the signing and exchange of the following documents;<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>1. Memorandum of Understanding on the Establishment of Friendship Cities between Nan Province and Luang Prabang Province.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>2. Exchange of work plans for the construction of boundary pillars between Thailand and Lao PDR, and for the survey and demarcation of the boundary along the Hueang River, between the Department of Treaties and Legal Affairs of Thailand, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, and the Office of the National Boundary Committee, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Lao PDR.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>3.Announcement of the Financial Assistance Agreement on the Construction of Chiangman - Luang Prabang Bridge Project, Lao PDR, between the Neighbouring Countries Economic Development Cooperation Agency (Public Organization) (NEDA) and the Ministry of Finance of the Lao PDR<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>During the visit, the Deputy Prime Minister also paid a courtesy call on H.E. Mr. Sonexay Siphandone, Prime Minister of the Lao PDR (then), to discuss ways to further advance all-dimensional cooperation and exchange views on regional issues, as well as cooperation under the Mekong subregional frameworks.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>In addition, the Deputy Prime Minister visited key transport and logistics connectivity points between Thailand and the Lao PDR, including: (1) the Vientiane Logistics Park, where discussions were held on ways to enhance the efficiency of transportation between the two countries; and (2) the construction site of the Chiangman - Luang Prabang Bridge, which will increase trade, transport, and tourism connectivity between Nan and Luang Prabang.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/49\/iid\/548627","date_published":"2026-10-06T22:41:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/20261007f105337f36427fd88c34cd87c1022756100357.jpg"},{"id":"9ae4117a0ac79127ae6812414af635d4","title":"Tout \u00e0 fait Tha\u00ef 2026: Thai Festival in Paris Draws Nearly 20,000 Visitors","content_text":"<p><strong>Tout &agrave; fait Tha&iuml; 2026, the Thai Festival in Paris, has proved a great success, attracting nearly 20,000 visitors. It highlighted the 170th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and France and the longstanding cultural ties between the two countries.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>The festival was held on 3-4 October 2026 at Parc de Bagatelle in Paris, France. The official opening ceremony was graciously presided over by Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya.&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Organized by the Royal Thai Embassy in Paris, Tout &agrave; fait Tha&iuml; 2026 offered French audiences, friends of Thailand, and international visitors an opportunity to experience Thailand and Thainess through Thai cuisine, arts and crafts, performances, music, Muaythai, Thai massage, products, services, and contemporary entertainment. Beyond cultural presentation, the festival helped foster greater understanding and people-to-people connections between Thailand and France.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>In his remarks, Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs Sarun Charoensuwan underscored the special bond between Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother and France, and her lifelong dedication to the Thai arts and crafts. This legacy has continued through Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari, particularly in bringing Thai textiles and craftsmanship into contemporary fashion and design.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>In 2026, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, together with public and private-sector partners, has brought Thai Festivals to 42 cities worldwide under the theme &ldquo;Creative Life and Creative Heartbeat.&rdquo; The festivals have showcased Thailand today where the tradition of rich culture and the modernity of creative economy come together, while also serving as a platform to connect and cultivate ties between Thai people and friends across the world.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/49\/iid\/548294","date_published":"2026-10-06T08:13:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/202610068a52993bbac382c7b526e889bb1c06e5091456.JPG"},{"id":"e18765097609f193acaeb1906449f88a","title":"Meeting on Thailand\u2019s OECD Accession Progress ","content_text":"<p><strong>Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs Sarun Charoensuwan on 2 October 2026 met with Ms. Gita Kothari, Director of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Legal Directorate and OECD Accession Coordinator, at OECD Headquarters in Paris.&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>They exchanged views on Thailand&rsquo;s progress in the OECD accession process, the advancement of technical reviews, and capacity-building support for Thailand.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>The Vice Minister reaffirmed the Royal Thai Government&rsquo;s commitment to using the OECD accession process as an opportunity to raise the country&rsquo;s standards and strengthen its regulations and public policies. He also expressed appreciation for the OECD&rsquo;s support to Thai agencies in preparing for reviews by the relevant OECD Committees.&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>The two sides also discussed preparations for the visits to Thailand by Mr. Mathias Cormann, OECD Secretary-General, in October and November 2026, which will provide important opportunities to further advance Thailand - OECD cooperation and strengthen the engagement of relevant Thai stakeholders in the accession process.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Previously, in a panel discussion, Director-General of the Department of International Economic Affairs Rujikorn Saengchantr emphasized that joining the OECD is not merely about attaining membership status but about using the accession process as a &ldquo;tool to accelerate national reform.&rdquo;&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>The process, she said, will help make regulations more efficient, transparent, and predictable, while promoting fair competition. This, in turn, can reduce costs and risks for businesses, strengthen investor confidence, and enhance Thailand&rsquo;s overall competitiveness. While higher standards may entail adjustment costs during the transition, particularly for SMEs, the public sector will need to listen to the private sector and provide appropriate support, so that OECD standards can become an opportunity for businesses to upgrade their capabilities and gain access to higher-value markets and value chains.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/49\/iid\/547717","date_published":"2026-10-03T18:30:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/202610034d3420523cff41f2df9c6c27ac06984f183935.jpeg"},{"id":"5b9227409e3dfd08a0b5db940d7976ec","title":"The 23rd Thai-Lao JC Meeting in Luang Prabang","content_text":"<p><strong>Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sihasak Phuangketkeow co-chaired the 23rd Meeting of the Joint Commission (JC) on Bilateral Cooperation between Thailand and the Lao PDR with Mr. Thongsavanh Phomvihane, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Lao PDR.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>The meeting took place in Luang Prabang on 2 October 2026. It agreed to promote the strategic partnership for common security and development between the two neighboring countries through existing bilateral mechanism at all levels, especially between the border provinces.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>The meeting focused on the following three key pillars:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>(1) Security cooperation, emphasizing border security, advancement of boundary demarcation work, combatting narcotic drugs, human trafficking and online scams, as well as cooperation on labor issues.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>(2) Economic cooperation, focusing on enhancing economic links between Thailand and the Lao PDR in all aspects. The meeting agreed to increase logistics connectivity (border checkpoints, bridges, roads, regulations and digital economy) to boost trade, transportation and development of the border areas, with a bilateral trade target of 11 billion USD within 2027. Collaboration between Thailand and the Lao PDR will be a key component of the regional logistics network which has the potential to connect Southeast Asia with China, Central Asia and Europe. Both sides will also work closely on energy security, with emphasis on clean energy and the ASEAN Power Grid to support future industries.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>(3) Social and cultural affairs, focusing on development cooperation, addressing transboundary haze pollution under the Clear Sky Strategy, managing water resources, establishing Nan Province and Luang Prabang as twin cities and expanding tourism collaboration with a target of three million tourists per year.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>In addition, the Deputy Prime Minister visited the construction site of the Chiangman &ndash; Luang Prabang Bridge project, which will facilitate travel between two famous tourist destinations &ndash; Nan Province of Thailand and Luang Prabang of the Lao PDR.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/49\/iid\/547591","date_published":"2026-10-02T18:47:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/20261002af96823cd603b1da7632a11e0b7d6409190351.jpeg"},{"id":"e542bf8ea047b0a4fa02ead9050a5088","title":"Thailand and Laos Partner to Advance Security and Development","content_text":"<p><strong>Thailand and the Lao People&rsquo;s Democratic Republic have welcomed the close ties and regular high-level visits, and the promotion of common security and development between the two neighboring countries.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sihasak Phuangketkeow on 1 October 2026 paid a courtesy call on Mr. Sonexay Siphandone, Prime Minister of the Lao People&rsquo;s Democratic Republic, at the National Convention Center, Vientiane.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Both sides agreed to increase cooperation to combat narcotic drugs and online scams, and address transboundary haze pollution. They will work toward a trade target of 11 billion USD by 2027, promote economic development of the border areas and energy security, as well as connectivity by road, rail and alignment of regulations, and development cooperation and tourism.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>In addition, the Deputy Prime Minister visited the Vientiane Logistics Park near the First Thai&ndash;Lao Friendship Bridge (Nong Khai - Vientiane). This logistics park is being developed as a special economic zone and regional distribution center of the Lao PDR. Discussion focused on enhancing effectiveness of transport between Thailand and the Lao PDR, as a key pillar of regional connectivity.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/49\/iid\/547436","date_published":"2026-10-02T12:53:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/202610024a61158d6c673401aac6bb0711bff6b5130540.jpg"},{"id":"5797e90bae06bffb92ef24b38ebad65b","title":"Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pays Official Visit to Laos","content_text":"<p><strong>Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sihasak Phuangketkeow is paying an official visit to the Lao People&rsquo;s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) on 30 September-2 October 2026, at the invitation of Mr. Thongsavanh Phomvihane, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Lao PDR.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>The visit is to co-chair the 23rd Meeting of the Joint Commission (JC) on Bilateral Cooperation between Thailand and the Lao PDR, according to a report from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>The meeting aims to further advance bilateral cooperation between Thailand and Lao PDR and follow up on the outcomes of the Thai Prime Minister&rsquo;s official visit to Lao PDR on 16 October 2025, including increasing political and security cooperation, trade and investment, energy security, connectivity, as well as social, cultural and development cooperation.&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>It will also promote closer collaboration to tackle current challenges, such as combatting online scams and narcotic drugs, and addressing transboundary environmental issues.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>On this occasion, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs will pay a courtesy call on Mr. Sonexay Siphandone, Prime Minister of the Lao PDR. He will also visit the Vientiane Logistics Park and the site designated for the construction of the Chiangman&ndash;Luang Prabang Bridge, with a view to further enhancing transport and logistics connectivity between the two countries.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/49\/iid\/546607","date_published":"2026-09-30T13:34:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/20260930bf584a600c28eddd61f458bacd8e97b3135559.jpeg"},{"id":"2e8a1757e4b99d7bc1563711b0d55464","title":"Statement by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul at UNGA81 in New York","content_text":"<p><strong>Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul delivered a national statement on behalf of Thailand in the General Debate&nbsp;at the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA81) on 24 September 2026, at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>In his statement, he said, &ldquo;At the outset, I congratulate you, Mr. President, on assuming the presidency of the 81st Session of the General Assembly.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&nbsp;&ldquo;It is an honour to address this Assembly for the first time, as Thailand marks 80 years of membership in the United Nations.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;When Thailand joined this Organization, the post-war international order was still taking shape. Today, it is being reshaped once again.&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;Many of its old certainties are giving way. But what comes next is not yet settled.&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;We are seeing many transformations taking place. Power is becoming more fragmented. Strategic competition is becoming sharper and international rules are under strain.<br \/>\r\n&nbsp;<br \/>\r\n&ldquo;At the same time, technology is transforming our societies, while climate change is testing our resilience. Our institutions, however, are struggling to keep pace.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;Confidence in our ability to work together is weakening.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;That is why this year&rsquo;s theme speaks directly to the task before us. Managing the transformation requires trust: trust between countries, trust in the rules we share, and trust that our institutions can deliver.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;But trust cannot be taken for granted. It must be earned.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;Trust weakens when principles are applied selectively. When countries have little say in decisions that shape their future. And when promises made in this Assembly fail to improve lives beyond it.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;Rebuilding trust means addressing each of these concerns. We must uphold common principles consistently.&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;We must give countries a genuine stake in the international system, including a stronger voice for the Global South. And we must take shared responsibility for turning commitments into results.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;The UN&rsquo;s purposes remain as relevant as ever: to promote peace and security, human rights and dignity, sustainable development and cooperation among sovereign equals.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;But we cannot build lasting peace if security is assured for some and denied to others. Universal human rights lose their meaning when applied selectively. Development loses its purpose when prosperity remains in the hands of a few.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;For Thailand, peace means more than the absence of war. It requires dialogue to settle differences and respect for international law, so that all countries can live with security and dignity.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;The situation in Palestine continues to demand our attention. It reminds us that the principles we uphold must protect people when they need them the most.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;That is why human rights must be universal in practice. As a member of the Human Rights Council, Thailand believes that our work must reach beyond resolutions and make a real difference in people&rsquo;s lives.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;Development must be people-centered and sustainable. Growth must improve people&rsquo;s lives today without closing off the opportunities of tomorrow.&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;Consistent application of principles gives countries the confidence that they will be treated fairly. But that confidence must also extend to how decisions are made. Countries need to know that their voices count.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;Today the UN&rsquo;s membership has become nearly universal. But representation has not evolved at the same pace.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;An international system cannot command trust if large parts of its membership feel they have too little say in shaping it.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;Rebuilding trust requires shared ownership. The United Nations must reflect today&rsquo;s world, not the distribution of power eighty years ago.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;That is why Thailand supports Security Council reform that gives developing countries and underrepresented regions, particularly in the Global South, a greater role in decision making.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;Asia, too, must be better represented. For all its economic weight, Asia must be able to help shape global decisions and carry more responsibility for the outcomes.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;And representation must also mean that women have a meaningful voice in the decisions that shape our common future. They are already at the forefront of this Organization&rsquo;s work &ndash; from development to peacekeeping. As the United Nations considers its next Secretary General, maybe it is time that this representation be reflected at the highest level.&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;Representation and effectiveness must advance together. We commend Secretary- General Ant&oacute;nio Guterres for his commitment to reform, including through the UN80 Initiative. We stand ready to work with his successor to carry this work forward.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;Having a stronger voice in global institutions means countries working together on the problems closest to them. This is where regional cooperation has a vital role.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;The United Nations must remain the centerpiece of the multilateral system. But we cannot expect it to do everything. It cannot settle problems when Member States are not willing to act.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;Regional institutions can help turn that willingness into cooperation. They bring countries together around shared challenges and translate global principles suited to local realities.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;In this way, regionalism becomes a building block of effective multilateralism.&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;ASEAN has demonstrated this for almost six decades. It has grown from five to eleven members. We do not always agree. But we have learned to manage differences and preserve space for cooperation.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;For Thailand, that practical cooperation means serving as a trusted platform. We want to leverage our strengths as a logistical hub and manufacturing base to connect markets and supply chains across our region.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;Our conviction is that together we should combine Asia&rsquo;s diversity for co-creation, bringing together the different strengths of our countries to promote shared prosperity.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;The same thinking should also extend beyond Asia. Thailand continues to pursue free trade agreements with partners across regions, to expand trade and opportunities for both sides.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;Additionally, our Thailand&ndash;Africa Initiative seeks to deepen political, economic and development cooperation -- to build partnerships of equals across our regions.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;Institutions earn trust through what their members are prepared to do. A greater voice must come with a willingness to contribute. Shared ownership therefore must lead to shared responsibility.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;The Charter begins with the words &ldquo;We the peoples.&rdquo; Thailand believes that this work must begin at home.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide us with an important framework that goes beyond development. Ultimately, they are about enabling people to live in peace and dignity. Progress towards achieving the SDGs also shapes how we are building a strong and resilient economy and how we remain accountable to our people.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;Thailand will leverage our strengths. We are building upon our strong agricultural base to be a source of food security for the world. Meanwhile, our Universal Health Coverage ensures that people have access to affordable and quality healthcare, while also developing Thailand into a medical and wellness hub.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;Additionally, our energy transition efforts take Thailand closer to meeting climate obligations. And through our solar rooftop policy, we are also creating greater economic opportunities for households by allowing them to sell excess electricity back to the grid.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;However, this responsibility goes beyond development.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;Thailand&rsquo;s humanitarian tradition demonstrates this conviction. In the late 1970s, Thailand provided temporary refuge and assistance to large numbers of Cambodians fleeing violence and famine.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;Today, we are giving displaced persons from Myanmar who have lived in temporary shelters in Thailand for decades greater opportunities to work and support their families.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;For the Rohingya transiting in Thailand, we have adopted a community-based alternative to immigration detention for Rohingya children to better protect their rights and access to services.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;Our responsibility as a neighbor also means addressing the challenges in our own neighborhood.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;One of those challenges is the dispute between Thailand and Cambodia. We have been through a difficult period. When I met with Prime Minister Hun Manet in May, we sought to resolve difficult issues through bilateral dialogue, while rebuilding trust and confidence in order to move forward together.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;It is regrettable that Cambodia did not give dialogue a genuine chance and chose a different path by initiating compulsory conciliation proceedings under UNCLOS. Nevertheless, Thailand is engaging in good faith. But our position is clear -- this process concerns the delimitation of maritime boundaries only.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;In the meantime, Cambodia must work with us to strengthen security along our shared border, including through concrete cooperation to combat online scams and demining. Our communities will not be safe if we do not make concrete progress on these matters. Ultimately our shared border must be a place of shared prosperity, not one that continues to bear the scars of conflict.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;Let me be clear. Thailand has never sought conflict. But peace can only be built when we work together in earnest. And surely this will require genuine effort from Cambodia.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;That same commitment guides our approach to Myanmar. Thailand supports peace, national reconciliation and a durable solution that is Myanmar-led and Myanmar-owned.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;We believe in constructive and calibrated re-engagement, within ASEAN and in coordination with relevant partners, while encouraging concrete progress on the ground.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;In both cases, our responsibility is to make dialogue possible and progress achievable.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;And when threats cross borders, responsibility must be shared more widely. Thailand has stepped up efforts on prevention and suppression of narcotics through our partnership with the UNODC, other regional and international organizations as well as neighboring countries.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;And through the Global Partnership against Online Scams, Thailand is bringing together all the relevant stakeholders together to prevent these crimes.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;Eighty years ago, in our first address to this Assembly, the Kingdom of Siam affirmed that it &ldquo;followed the path of peaceful settlement and friendly co-operation.&rdquo; That path still guides Thailand today.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;As a new international order takes shape, we must carry that spirit forward. No country can write its future alone. And no international order can earn lasting trust if too many countries feel that the system is written for them, but not with them.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;A rules-based international order with shared ownership in shaping our common future is the condition that will help rebuild that trust.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;The future of the United Nations will depend on the trust we rebuild through our actions today.&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>&ldquo;Let us give every nation reason to believe in the United Nations, and every person reason to believe that the United Nations can deliver for them.&rdquo;<\/strong><br \/>\r\n&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/49\/iid\/544992","date_published":"2026-09-26T01:29:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/20260926504d2ec9e702bb6fc16a4e66b33d28bf025157.jpeg"},{"id":"e2a5ee2a741f52f7b607f0356f3d62c6","title":"Thailand Shares its Vision at the Asia Society in New York","content_text":"<p><strong>Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sihasak Phuangketkeow delivered a keynote address on 24 September, sharing Thailand&rsquo;s vision at the Asia Society, New York, during the High-level Week of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>In his keynote address presenting Thailand&#39;s vision, titled &quot;ASEAN &ndash; Shaping the Course of an Asian Century,&quot; the Deputy Prime Minister highlighted the continued important role of ASEAN in promoting trust and confidence, peace, and stability in the region, rule-based international order, and economic connectivity among ASEAN Member States and with partner countries, which has contributed to Asia&#39;s rise.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>In this regard, he outlined the &quot;3R&quot; vision for strengthening ASEAN, namely (1) Regionalism &ndash; deepening ASEAN integration and aligning national interests with regional interests, (2) Resilience &ndash; strengthening ability to address new situations and transboundary challenges, while making its mechanisms more effective and responsive to evolving circumstances, and (3) Relevance &ndash; maintaining ASEAN&#39;s leading role at regional and international levels and promoting tangible cooperation to advance shared interests such as energy connectivity, supply chains resilience, and combating transnational crime, among others.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>During the discussion moderated by Mr. Daniel Russel, Asia Society Distinguished Fellow, and former U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, the Deputy Prime Minister also shared Thailand&#39;s views on geopolitics and competition among major powers, as well as developments in the region, including the situation in Myanmar and Thailand&ndash;Cambodia relations.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>On the same day, the Deputy Prime Minister joined Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul in his meeting with Mr. Ant&oacute;nio Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, The Prime Minister and the Secretary General of the United Nations welcomed the close relations between Thailand and the United Nations and on the occasion of the 80th anniversary of Thailand&rsquo;s membership in the United Nations.&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>The Secretary-General expressed appreciation for Thailand&rsquo;s constructive role and longstanding support for the work of the United Nations, especially as the host country of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) and various UN entities in Thailand. The Prime Minister expressed views regarding the transparent and fair selection process for the next United Nations Secretary-General.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Both sides also discussed the situation between Thailand and Cambodia and the situation in Myanmar. The Prime Minister affirmed Thailand&rsquo;s commitment to promoting peace and stability through peaceful conflict resolution within the framework of international law.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/49\/iid\/544966","date_published":"2026-09-25T20:31:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/202609255c35a22e6177e6d60452bb554103ebe0205145.jpeg"},{"id":"1195a1eef322f58b57d5d62b2750b447","title":"Thailand and Malta Sign MOU on Political Consultation Mechanism","content_text":"<p><strong>Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sihasak Phuangketkeow and Minister for Foreign and European Affairs of the Republic of Malta Chris Fearne co-signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the Establishment of a Political Consultation Mechanism between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand and the Ministry for Foreign and European Affairs of the Republic of Malta.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>The signing took place on 23 September 2026 on the sidelines of the High-Level Week of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>The MoU establishes a consultation mechanism between the foreign ministries of both countries, aimed at promoting and developing cooperation in areas of mutual benefit, as well as serving as a channel for exchanging views on bilateral relations and regional issues. <\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>In this regard, Thailand has proposed to host the first bilateral consultation in Bangkok.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Both sides also discussed ways to further promote relations and expand Thailand-Malta cooperation in a closer and more concrete manner and exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual interest.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/49\/iid\/544733","date_published":"2026-09-24T22:26:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/202609254d945d296b36e24f3c6a0e98448fd174035740.jpeg"}]}