SYDNEY, Australia – Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul detailed Thailand’s views on regional and international affairs at the Lowy Institute in Sydney on August 18, calling for a more capable ASEAN, strategic autonomy, and deeper economic integration amid geopolitical and economic uncertainty. Welcomed by Lowy Institute Executive Director Dr. Michael Fullilove, Anutin presented Thailand’s views on how middle powers can contribute to an open, stable, and rules-based regional order. He described ASEAN as Thailand’s strategic anchor, reaffirmed support for the Five-Point Consensus on Myanmar, and backed peaceful dialogue and agreed bilateral mechanisms in managing relations with Cambodia.
Anutin also outlined Thailand’s pursuit of strategic autonomy through broad international partnerships while preserving the country’s ability to make decisions in line with its interests. Thailand and Australia plan closer coordination against online and transnational crime, along with practical collaboration among smaller groups of countries. On economic resilience, Anutin identified opportunities in critical minerals, batteries, clean energy, advanced manufacturing, food security, digital trade, cybersecurity, and responsible artificial intelligence. Bilateral trade reached about 32 billion AUS dollars in 2025. Premier Anutin also welcomed Australia’s support for Thailand’s OECD accession process and called for closer bilateral ties to promote stability and prosperity across the region. (NNT)
