BANGKOK, Thailand – Thailand’s foreign policy budget was defended as aligned with national interests and regional stability.
Russ Jalichandra, Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs, addressed Parliament during the first reading of the 2026 Budget Bill, valued at 3.78 trillion baht. He emphasized that the Foreign Ministry’s budget request aligns with government policy to navigate a shifting geopolitical and geo-economic landscape.
He stated the budget was structured to uphold Thailand’s interests while promoting global cooperation. The ministry’s foreign policy remains rooted in neutrality, balanced diplomacy, and international law, aiming to build peace and act as a regional “bridge builder.”
On Myanmar, Russ reaffirmed Thailand’s stance of supporting peace and non-intervention. He stressed that Thailand does not take sides and opposes all forms of violence. Instead, it supports dialogue led by Myanmar’s own stakeholders under the “Myanmar-led, Myanmar-owned” principle.
He also highlighted Thailand’s active diplomatic efforts, including three key multilateral dialogues: Thailand–Myanmar–India in New Delhi; Thailand–Myanmar–China–Laos in Chiang Mai; and Myanmar–Thailand–China–Laos–India–Bangladesh in Bangkok. These meetings were praised for offering a constructive platform to de-escalate tensions.
Russ assured that budget allocations were made to support both bilateral and multilateral diplomacy. These include meetings, visits, embassy operations, and ASEAN coordination, particularly in support of the Five-Point Consensus and continued UN engagement.
Addressing pollution concerns, he said the Thai government is not ignoring the arsenic contamination in the Kok and Sai Rivers. Coordination with Myanmar is ongoing, and both central and local agencies are being mobilized for a swift resolution.
On humanitarian efforts, he confirmed that Thailand continues to assist Myanmar through health and education support at the border. The government also responded quickly to the recent earthquake, sending medical and military teams to Mandalay from April 12 to May 8, 2025.
Russ concluded that the Foreign Ministry’s budget planning is action-oriented and in full alignment with the Prime Minister’s vision, ensuring resources are used to solve real problems for the Thai people. (NNT)
