BANGKOK, Thailand – Deputy Prime Minister Pakorn Nilprapunt participated in a bilateral meeting with Australian Ambassador Angela Macdonald at Government House to advance cooperation under the Thailand–Australia strategic partnership. Both sides reviewed long-standing relations across defense, culture, and people-to-people ties, and discussed support for Thailand’s bid to join the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development. Deputy Minister Pakorn stated that Thailand is working toward membership by 2028, while expressing appreciation for Australia’s support through the Mekong–Australia Partnership in aligning Thailand’s systems with international standards.
On transnational crime, both parties agreed to expand cooperation in addressing shared challenges, including online scam operations. Thai authorities are continuing their campaigns to improve public awareness and digital literacy to help prevent such crimes. The gathering also reviewed progress under the Joint Plan of Action for the Thailand–Australia Strategic Partnership for 2022–2025, covering cooperation in non-traditional security, economic engagement, and connectivity. Both sides indicated readiness to expand collaboration further. Pakorn also extended best wishes to Ambassador Macdonald ahead of the completion of her tenure, reaffirming continued cooperation between Thailand and Australia. (NNT)
