In a significant diplomatic move, Anutin Charnvirakul and Emmanuel Macron have agreed to elevate the relationship between Thailand and France to a strategic partnership. This decision was reached during official talks held at the Élysée Palace in Paris, where discussions centered on boosting collaboration across various sectors including trade, investment, cybersecurity, defense, and advanced technology. Both leaders also took the opportunity to assess regional developments involving Cambodia and Myanmar.
The two nations expressed a commitment to enhancing cooperation in industries such as alternative energy, aerospace, aviation, smart power grids, and artificial intelligence infrastructure. France further pledged its support for concluding the Thailand-European Union free trade agreement negotiations by the end of the year. Originally launched in 2013, these trade talks were put on hold in 2014 and resumed in 2023, with Thai officials highlighting the potential economic benefits for both countries.
Defense and cybersecurity emerged as key areas for strengthened collaboration, with both countries aiming to tackle cybercrime, online scams, and digital threats that cross national boundaries. Additionally, Thailand reiterated its resolve to address border issues with Cambodia through peaceful dialogue and international law frameworks. In a move to solidify their partnership, the two governments unveiled plans to implement the Joint Action Plan to Strengthen the Thai-French Partnership from 2026 to 2028, laying the groundwork for a formal strategic alliance.
During his visit to France, Anutin also engaged with top executives from major French companies, including Airbus, Imerys, EssilorLuxottica, IN Groupe, and Thales Group, to attract further investment in Thailand’s high-tech and future industries. French companies responded positively, expressing confidence in Thailand’s investment environment. Notably, Airbus confirmed its intention to expand its aviation and engineering operations within the country, signaling a robust future for bilateral economic ties.