Bangkok: Academics point out that the photo of the Thai and Russian leaders embracing reflects 130 years of friendship and reinforces the strong relationship between the two countries. Mr. Wanwichit Boonproong, a lecturer at the Faculty of Political Science, Rangsit University, commented on the results of Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul's visit to the Russian Federation to attend the ASEAN-Russia Summit in Kazan on June 17-18, 2026. He stated that this visit marked another significant milestone in Thai-Russian relations and reinforced the long-standing ties that will soon enter their 130th year in 2027. The summit was particularly important as it marked the 35th anniversary of the dialogue partnership between ASEAN and Russia. Leaders and high-level representatives from ASEAN member states met with President Vladimir Putin to determine the direction of future cooperation amidst the volatile global situation in terms of economics, security, and geopolitics.
According to Thai News Agency, for Thailand, the Prime Minister used the platform to present the vision for propelling the country towards becoming a regional economic, trade, and logistics hub. He also proposed the 3Rs concept: Resilience (building resilience in the face of crises), Responsibility (shared responsibility), and Reform (reforming to adapt to global changes), which garnered significant attention from the attendees.
However, what attracted no less attention from the media and international observers than the summit itself was the image of the friendly greeting and embrace between the Thai Prime Minister and President Putin. This reflected the trust and good relationship between the two leaders, leading to questions about the origins of such closeness.
Mr. Wanwichit explained that Russia has consistently held a positive view of Thailand, particularly as a country that welcomes and takes good care of Russian tourists. At the same time, economic, trade, and investment cooperation between the two countries has expanded steadily over the past several years, resulting in Thailand being seen as an important partner for Russia in Southeast Asia.
From a security perspective, Russia is interested in expanding its role and cooperation in the ASEAN region. However, the case of Thailand is unique compared to many other countries because Russia understands Thailand's balanced foreign policy, which maintains relationships with all major powers-the United States, China, and Russia-without attempting to pressure Thailand to choose a political or strategic side.
Russia seeks to enhance cooperation with Thailand in several areas, particularly the defense industry, energy, and maritime security. In the past, the Thai and Russian navies have enjoyed strong cooperation, including joint maritime exercises, port visits, and exchanges on operational cooperation. As a result, the Russian side is very satisfied with Thailand's role.
Mr. Wanwichit stated that senior Russian officials view Thailand as a potential ally and expect to see enhanced military cooperation in the future between the army, navy, and air force of both countries to strengthen security and mutual interests at the regional level.
'2027 will mark the 130th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and Russia, one of the oldest in the ASEAN region. The Prime Minister's visit to Russia is therefore not just for attending an international conference, but also to reaffirm the long-standing legacy of friendship,' Mr. Wanwichit said.
Furthermore, the image of the Thai Prime Minister and President Putin embracing is seen not merely as a symbolic diplomatic gesture, but as a reflection of the trust, warmth, and strong relationship between the two countries. This will be a crucial foundation for expanding cooperation in economics, investment, energy, and security in the future.