Auckland: The Prime Minister concluded his visit to New Zealand by meeting with the Thai community in Auckland, highlighting economic growth and strong international relations. He lamented tight security which caused him to miss a meeting at a Thai temple. He also announced good news: Thai Airways is preparing to resume direct flights to facilitate travel and promote tourism.
According to Thai News Agency, on his final day of official visit to New Zealand, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul departed for Thailand at 11:30 AM local time (5 hours ahead of Thailand). In the morning, he hosted a breakfast and meeting with representatives of the Thai community residing in Auckland at Harbour 1 Room, 2nd floor, Park Hyatt Auckland. The event was attended by over 100 people, including members of the Buddhist clergy led by Phra Rajavorayanmunee, Abbot of Wat Yanaprateep New Zealand, Thai entrepreneurs, and other Thais. Ministers accompanying the Prime Minister also participated in the meeting: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Ekniti Nitithanprapas; Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sihasak Phuangketkaew; Minister of Labour Julaphan Amornvivat; Minister of Culture Sabidia Thaiseth; and Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives Piyarat Tiyapairat. The atmosphere was warm and friendly.
The Prime Minister began by apologizing to the Thai people for the sudden change of meeting place. He explained that he had originally intended to visit and meet with the Thai community at Wat Yan Prateep in New Zealand, a more familiar and informal location. He had tried his best to negotiate with the New Zealand authorities, but they refused permission because the trip to the temple was not on the official itinerary and they were concerned about security standards. He jokingly added, "It would be difficult to sneak out because there are three people guarding the room and another inside." Therefore, he had to decide to invite all Thai people to meet at his hotel instead, providing breakfast and full hospitality.
The Prime Minister then introduced the high-level delegates and ministers accompanying him on this mission, reflecting the government's integrated collaboration. During the introduction of Mr. Chulaphan Amornvivat, Minister of Labour and leader of the Pheu Thai Party, Mr. Anutin stated that despite being a coalition government, all parties are working together stably and with a shared goal for the nation.
The Prime Minister then summarized the overall achievements of the mission, stating that the delegation began their journey from Sydney to Canberra, Australia, where they had the opportunity to visit Thai temples and meet with the local community. They also met with both the Governor and the Prime Minister. Overall, the relationship between Thailand, Australia, and New Zealand is considered very good. Strategic plans have been developed and Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) have been signed to elevate the relationship to a sustainable strategic partnership in trade, economics, culture, technology, and investment. The full utilization of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) will be prioritized.
The Prime Minister further stated that, in terms of security, it is confirmed that the situation along Thailand's borders with neighboring countries, including Cambodia, Sa Kaeo, Prachinburi, Buriram, Surin, Ubon Ratchathani, Chanthaburi, and Trat, remains peaceful and there have been no military clashes. Regarding the overlapping maritime areas with Cambodia, the government has adopted a "hold for now" policy to avoid conflict and focus on peaceful coexistence.
Regarding the unrest in Myanmar, the Thai government affirms that it does not support ethnic minorities using weapons or exploiting border areas to impact Thailand. Thailand is working closely with ASEAN to resolve various issues, such as drug trafficking, call center scams, and the management of natural gas resources to protect national interests.
The Prime Minister also addressed the economic dimension, stating that clearly positive economic figures reinforce the government's stability. Currently, investment promotion applications (BOI) have grown by almost 100%, while exports have expanded by 20%. This, coupled with a stable Thai baht, a strong stock market, and excellent national creditworthiness, contributes to the positive outlook.
Mr. Anutin praised all Thais living abroad, regardless of their profession, such as owners of Thai restaurants or chefs, saying that they are all like ambassadors or cultural envoys who help build the reputation, create confidence, and attract foreigners to Thailand. He affirmed that the government is ready to fully support and listen to all problems, and asked everyone to wait for good news soon regarding Thai Airways' plans to resume direct flights between Bangkok and Auckland.
The Prime Minister listened to proposals from the Thai community, particularly regarding labor and employment issues. The government will discuss these matters with relevant agencies and the New Zealand side to find ways to increase opportunities for Thai workers, while also ensuring their rights, welfare, and quality of life are appropriate.
On this occasion, Phra Ratchaworayanmunee, the abbot of Wat Yanaprateep, praised and blessed the cabinet ministers, urging them to uphold mindfulness, patience, compassion, and forgiveness as they bear the burden of governing the country. He emphasized the importance of unity in order to steer the "ship of state," which is Thailand, forward, and wished the cabinet ministers success in their duties.
Meanwhile, Thai attendees expressed their delight at the news that Thai Airways will resume direct flights between Bangkok and Auckland next year, which will facilitate travel and promote tourism between the two countries. They also expressed their desire to see expanded cooperation in agriculture between Thailand and New Zealand.
During the event, Thai entrepreneurs in New Zealand presented flowers as a memento to the Prime Minister. The Prime Minister and his delegation then posed for photos with the Thai people before proceeding to Auckland Airport for their return to Thailand. They are scheduled to arrive in Thailand at approximately 7:45 PM today.