BANGKOK, Thailand – Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sihasak Phuangketkeow stated that the upcoming official visit to Thailand by General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam and President To Lam will serve as a major catalyst for strengthening the Thailand–Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and shaping a shared vision for the next 50 years of bilateral relations. In an interview with the Voice of Vietnam (VOV) during his official mission in Paris, Sihasak emphasized that Thailand and Vietnam have developed complementary economies, supported by expanding trade and investment. Thailand is Vietnam’s largest trading partner in ASEAN, while Vietnam is Thailand’s second-largest. Bilateral trade has reached about US$22 billion and is on track to meet the shared target of US$25 billion.
The deputy prime minister highlighted growing supply chain integration, noting that many Thai exports serve as intermediate goods in Vietnamese manufacturing before reaching global markets. He expressed confidence that Thai businesses will continue to expand investment in Vietnam, supported by closer economic cooperation and an improved business environment.
Sihasak emphasized the importance of the “Three Connects Strategy,” which focuses on supply-chain connectivity, local economic links, and sustainable development. He stated that this framework will strengthen economic competitiveness, extend growth benefits to local communities, and promote environmentally sustainable development while supporting emerging sectors such as the green economy, digital economy, science and technology, and human resource development.
To mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations, Sihasak described the upcoming visit as a milestone and the first leader-level official visit under Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s administration. He noted that Thailand is the first ASEAN country the General Secretary has officially visited since becoming president, reflecting the significance both countries place on their partnership. Beyond bilateral cooperation, the Deputy Prime Minister highlighted the shared role of Thailand and Vietnam in promoting development in the Mekong subregion and strengthening ASEAN unity and centrality. He stated that both countries are committed to maintaining ASEAN as a region of peace, stability, and economic opportunity, while advancing regional integration and attracting investment in a complex global environment. The Deputy Prime Minister expressed confidence that the visit will generate new momentum for bilateral cooperation and reinforce both countries’ commitment to building a stronger, future-oriented partnership. (NNT)
Credit: Voice of Vietnam (VOV)
