Bangkok: Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra engaged in a telephone conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron to explore strengthening bilateral relations and enhancing cooperation in various sectors, including transnational crime prevention and economic partnerships. The discussion also highlighted the significance of France's coordination in facilitating negotiations between Thailand and Cambodia.
According to Thai News Agency, the conversation marked the first official interaction between the two leaders since Prime Minister Paetongtarn took office. Both leaders expressed their commitment to elevating Thailand-France relations to a strategic partnership. President Macron extended an invitation to Prime Minister Paetongtarn for an official visit to France and to attend the Paris Peace Forum. Additionally, the Prime Minister conveyed his congratulations and extended an invitation for President Macron to visit Thailand during the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF) summit in Cambodia next year.
During the call, the leaders underscored the need for enhanced cooperation amidst current global political and economic uncertainties. They emphasized the importance of trade and investment collaboration, grounded in international rules. France expressed its desire to expand cooperation with Thailand, particularly in security and space technology sectors.
The discussion also included an exchange of views on global geopolitical and economic competition, with Thailand reiterating its stance on maintaining balance among major powers and supporting a world order based on international rules. Thailand expressed gratitude for France's support of its OECD accession and continued backing in the Thailand-EU FTA negotiations.
In the realm of ASEAN, the Prime Minister highlighted ASEAN's central role in addressing transnational crimes and the government's proactive measures to combat issues such as call center scams and cyber crimes. Thailand is prepared to work closely with neighboring countries and international partners, including France, which expressed readiness to support these efforts.
Addressing the Thai-Cambodian border situation, the Prime Minister affirmed Thailand's commitment to peaceful resolution based on good neighborliness, ASEAN unity, and international law. He stressed the importance of bilateral negotiations for constructive and mutually beneficial solutions, with France potentially playing a supportive role in fostering a conducive environment for these discussions.
The conversation also touched on Middle Eastern conflicts and the situation in Myanmar. The Prime Minister advocated for a ceasefire and non-violence, expressing Thailand's readiness to support peace processes in Myanmar. He emphasized the need for sustainable peace, driven by the people of Myanmar, and supported Malaysia's role as ASEAN Chair in facilitating dialogue and participation.