Prime Minister Arrives in Kazan for ASEAN-Russia Summit

Kazan: The Prime Minister has arrived in Kazan, preparing to attend the ASEAN-Russia summit to promote cooperation in energy, food, technology, and ASEAN-Eurasia economic connectivity.

According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Ratchada Thanadirek, Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, disclosed that Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul, along with his delegation, arrived in Kazan, Russian Federation, to participate in the Special ASEAN-Russia Commemorative Summit from June 16-19, 2026, marking the 35th anniversary of ASEAN-Russia relations. The Prime Minister and his delegation were greeted by senior officials from the Russian Federation and representatives from the Royal Thai Embassy in Moscow.

Mr. Bogdashev Igor Viktorovich, Director-General of the Protocol Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, Mr. Rustam Minnikhanov, Head of State of the Republic of Tatarstan, Mr. Vladimir Aleksandrovich Leonov, Minister of Sport of the Republic of Tatarstan, and Mr. Ilsur Metshin, Mayor of Kazan, were among the Russian officials who extended a warm welcome to the Prime Minister and his wife. Mr. Sasiwat Vongsinsawasdi, Ambassador to Moscow, along with military attach©s, the Commercial Attach©, and officials of the Royal Thai Embassy in Moscow, also participated in the welcoming ceremony.

The Prime Minister and his wife were received with traditional Russian customs, where women in traditional attire presented them with bread, symbolizing friendship, hospitality, and goodwill, underscoring the strong relations between Thailand and Russia.

The spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office noted that this meeting serves as a crucial platform for directing future cooperation between ASEAN and Russia. The summit comprises a plenary session focused on international and regional cooperation, as well as the future trajectory of ASEAN-Russia relations, and a working lunch to discuss the potential of the ASEAN and Eurasian regions. Participants include representatives from the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), the ASEAN Business Advisory Council, and the Russian Federation's Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

On June 17, 2026, the Prime Minister will attend the ASEAN-Russia Business Forum, a business conference between Russia and ASEAN, followed by a Gala Dinner for leaders and a cultural performance. This event is a prelude to the Special ASEAN-Russia Summit the next day.

During the summit on June 18, 2026, the Prime Minister will join a group photo of leaders, participate in the Special ASEAN-Russia Summit, and deliver a statement on cooperation and the future of ASEAN-Russia relations. He will also co-approve four outcome documents from the meeting.

The Prime Minister will join a working lunch with ASEAN leaders, Russian representatives, and regional economic organizations to discuss strengthening economic connectivity and exploring new opportunities in trade, investment, energy, technology, and food security.

Additionally, the Prime Minister is scheduled for bilateral talks with the President of the Russian Federation to enhance cooperation between Thailand and Russia, particularly in economics, trade, investment, energy, and technology, aiming to create economic opportunities and improve the quality of life for the Thai people.

The Prime Minister and his delegation will conclude their visit and return to Thailand on June 19, 2026.