In a significant diplomatic development, Thailand and France have decided to elevate their bilateral ties to a strategic partnership following high-level talks between Anutin Charnvirakul and Emmanuel Macron in Paris. The discussions, which took place at the Élysée Palace, centered on enhancing cooperation in various fields including trade, investment, cybersecurity, defense, and advanced technology. The leaders also took the opportunity to discuss regional issues, particularly developments in Cambodia and Myanmar.
Both nations expressed a commitment to boosting collaboration in sectors such as alternative energy, aerospace, aviation, smart power grids, and artificial intelligence infrastructure. France reiterated its support for finalizing the Thailand-European Union free trade agreement by the end of the year, a negotiation that initially began in 2013, was halted in 2014, and resumed in 2023. Thai officials highlighted the potential economic benefits the agreement could bring to both countries.
In addition to trade and technology, the two countries agreed to intensify their cooperation in defense and cybersecurity, focusing on combating cybercrime, online scams, and transnational digital threats. On regional matters, Thailand reaffirmed its dedication to addressing border disputes with Cambodia through peaceful dialogue and adherence to international law frameworks.
The governments also announced plans to implement the Joint Action Plan to Strengthen the Thai-French Partnership from 2026 to 2028, setting the stage for a formal strategic partnership. During his visit, Anutin engaged with executives from leading French companies, including Airbus, Imerys, EssilorLuxottica, IN Groupe, and Thales Group, to encourage more investment in Thailand’s burgeoning high-tech and future industries.
French companies expressed optimism about Thailand’s investment climate, with Airbus confirming intentions to expand its aviation and engineering operations within the country. This move underscores the growing economic ties and mutual confidence between Thailand and France as they look to a future of enhanced collaboration.