Kazan: In a significant diplomatic engagement, Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior of Thailand, met with Russian President Vladimir Putin to emphasize their 130-year-old friendship and aim to expand cooperation in various sectors, including economy, energy, and people-to-people connectivity.
According to Thai News Agency, the bilateral meeting took place at the Kazan International Conference Center during the ASEAN-Russia Commemorative Summit. Ms. Ratchada Thanadirek, the Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, shared insights into the discussions, highlighting the longstanding and friendly relations between Thailand and Russia. The meeting set the stage for celebrating the 130th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two nations in 2027.
Russia is slated to host the 9th meeting of the Thai-Russian Joint Commission on Bilateral Cooperation in Moscow in August 2026. This meeting is expected to serve as a pivotal mechanism for furthering cooperation. Discussions during the meeting spanned several key areas:
1. Political and Security Cooperation: Both leaders acknowledged the importance of strengthening relations at bilateral, regional, and multilateral levels. They addressed the impact of Middle Eastern conflicts on energy security, with Thailand expressing gratitude for Russia's support in clean energy and essential goods. Both nations agreed to expand cooperation in areas including military, information, public health, science, technology, and education.
2. Economic Collaboration: With trade between Thailand and Russia currently valued at US$1.5 billion, both sides recognized the potential for growth. The Thai-Russian Business Council is exploring new trade opportunities, and negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement between Thailand and the Eurasian Economic Union are underway to enhance trade and investment opportunities. The success of the Russian-Thai Investment Forum, held last year, was also noted, with plans for another forum in Bangkok this October.
3. Multilateral Cooperation: The Prime Minister expressed gratitude for Russia's support of ASEAN and praised Russia's constructive role in APEC, particularly in promoting the digital economy and sustainable development. Thailand is prepared to collaborate with Russia on issues like the digital economy, AI, cybersecurity, and economic cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region.
4. Tourism and Cultural Exchange: The meeting also focused on promoting cultural and tourism cooperation, especially with the upcoming 130th anniversary of Thai-Russian relations. With nearly two million Russian tourists expected in Thailand by 2025, cultural exchanges through music, films, and performing arts are planned to further strengthen people-to-people ties.
In conclusion, the Prime Minister extended his gratitude to President Putin for the warm reception and reiterated Thailand's commitment to fostering comprehensive cooperation with Russia. He expressed hope for future discussions with the Russian President at the 33rd APEC Leaders' Meeting later this year.