BANGKOK, Thailand – Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra delivered key policy directives at the closing ceremony of the 2025 Annual Meeting of Ambassadors and Consul-Generals, held under the theme “Proactive Diplomacy that Serves the People: From Policy to Practice.”
The premier emphasized that amid major global political, social, and economic transformations, Thailand must find ways to strengthen and build upon the country’s existing advantages while seizing new opportunities. The country needs to respond effectively and efficiently to constantly evolving challenges while providing timely and accurate information on important international issues to build confidence and maintain strong international relationships.
She also outlined three strategic directions:
- Implementation of Action Plans
* Short-term: Boost existing economic drivers (agricultural exports, tourism) by expanding fruit markets, improving logistics, and attracting quality tourists, including retirees and digital nomads
* Long-term: Enhance competitiveness through targeted investment attraction, stronger connectivity, and accelerated FTA negotiations
- Promoting Peace and Shared Prosperity
* Use foreign policy as an economic growth tool while prioritizing national interests
* Strengthen neighboring relationships and ASEAN unity for greater collective bargaining power
* Make strategic choices based on accurate global trend analysis
- Working as “Team Thailand”
* Integrate all agencies under a unified foreign policy strategy
*Enhance efficiency through clear targets and coordinated tools
* Navigate global uncertainties to maximize national benefits
The Prime Minister reiterated Thailand’s stance on important bilateral, regional, and global issues, emphasizing peaceful resolution and collaborative solutions. Three critical cases requiring appropriate communication and clarification include 1) US tariff measures, 2) Myanmar’s political situation, and 3) disputes with Cambodia. Thailand aims to inform the international community about developments and the rationale behind its policies on these matters.
She finally expressed confidence that the upcoming Joint Boundary Committee (JBC) meeting would contribute to greater understanding between the two countries, referring to Thailand-Cambodia border discussions.
This comprehensive foreign policy framework reflects Thailand’s commitment to proactive diplomacy that balances national interests with regional stability and global cooperation. (PRD)
