Kuala lumpur: Foreign Minister Maris Sengiampong conducted key bilateral discussions with representatives from multiple nations during the 58th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, focusing on enhancing mutual cooperation in areas such as trade, security, and private sector collaboration.
According to Thai News Agency, the discussions featured talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, highlighting the 50th anniversary of China-Thailand relations. Both countries expressed a commitment to elevate their relationship through high-level exchange visits and cooperation within various sub-regional frameworks. Notably, China will host the Mekong-Lancang Ministerial Meeting, while Thailand will organize the Mekong-Lancang Summit. The talks included plans to enhance people-to-people connectivity and integrate railway systems linking ASEAN and China.
In terms of trade, Wang Yi expressed China’s support for increasing trade with Thailand, addressing issues like live cattle imports by ensuring compliance with international and Chinese health standards. Additionally, assistance was provided to resolve challenges in Thai durian imports to China.
Discussions with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio marked a significant engagement, with the US acknowledging Thailand’s strategic role in Southeast Asian security. The US pledged support for Thailand’s security initiatives and collaboration in national defense industry development, aligning with Prime Minister Paethongtarn Shinawatra’s vision of strengthening Thailand’s defense capabilities.
Talks with UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy explored potential collaborations in renewable energy, security industries, and tropical science. These align with UK government policies and aim to foster joint business ventures between private sectors in both countries.
During discussions with the European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Policy, Gaya Gallas, the focus was on defense, green transition, and renewable energy cooperation. The EU expressed willingness to advance these initiatives and addressed ongoing negotiations for a Thai-EU Free Trade Area and free Schengen visa access, aiming for a resolution within the year.