BANGKOK, Thailand – Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has asked for time to resolve the United States’ tariff barrier issues, revealing that confidential negotiations are ongoing with the US through discreet channels. She emphasized that the Thai government remains within international frameworks and is working to strengthen ties with ASEAN partners.
Speaking on her program “Thai Opportunities with PM Paetongtarn,” the Prime Minister said she has consulted with a team of US policy experts since before the inauguration of former President Donald Trump. Discussions have also taken place with the private sector and with ASEAN leaders, including the prime ministers of Malaysia and Cambodia, to unite ASEAN’s unique selling points. With a population of over 600 million, ASEAN represents one-tenth of the global population—a powerful leverage point in negotiations.
Paetongtarn stressed the need for behind-the-scenes negotiations, noting that premature disclosure of strategies could cause complications and impact outcomes. She assured that talks with the US have been ongoing without interruption and are closely coordinated with Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira.
Regarding Moody’s recent decision to shift Thailand’s credit outlook to negative, the Prime Minister clarified that it is merely a perspective on economic prospects, particularly due to tax concerns with the US. It does not reflect an actual downgrade in Thailand’s credit rating. She emphasized that the government is actively addressing the issue by signing agreements with global companies and promoting Thailand as an investment destination. (TNA)
