During a significant meeting in Paris, Thai Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and French President Emmanuel Macron agreed to elevate the relationship between Thailand and France to a strategic partnership. The talks, held at the Élysée Palace, zeroed in on enhancing cooperation across sectors such as trade, investment, cybersecurity, defense, and advanced technology. Additionally, the discussions included a review of regional developments, particularly involving Cambodia and Myanmar.
The two nations have committed to increasing collaboration in key industries like alternative energy, aerospace, aviation, smart power grids, and artificial intelligence infrastructure. A major point of discussion was the Thailand-European Union free trade agreement, with France reaffirming its support for concluding negotiations by the end of the year. Originally launched in 2013 but suspended a year later, the free trade talks resumed in 2023. Thai officials are optimistic that the agreement will open up substantial economic opportunities for both sides.
In terms of security, Thailand and France have pledged to strengthen their defense and cybersecurity cooperation. This includes intensified efforts to tackle cybercrime, online scams, and various transnational digital threats. On regional matters, Thailand reiterated its commitment to peacefully resolving border issues with Cambodia, adhering to dialogue and international law frameworks.
Both governments unveiled plans to implement the Joint Action Plan to Strengthen the Thai-French Partnership for 2026-2028. This initiative is expected to pave the way for a formal strategic partnership between the two countries. The partnership aims to deepen ties and foster mutual benefits in multiple sectors.
While in France, Anutin met with executives from major French companies such as Airbus, Imerys, EssilorLuxottica, IN Groupe, and Thales Group. These meetings aimed to encourage further investment in Thailand’s burgeoning high-tech and future industries. French companies expressed confidence in the investment environment of Thailand, with Airbus announcing plans to expand its aviation and engineering operations within the country.
