Thailand and France have taken a significant step in their bilateral relations, agreeing to enhance their ties to a strategic partnership level. This decision emerged from recent high-level discussions in Paris between Thailand’s Anutin Charnvirakul and French President Emmanuel Macron. The two leaders focused on expanding cooperation across several critical sectors including trade, investment, cybersecurity, defense, and advanced technology. During their meeting at the Élysée Palace, they also addressed regional issues concerning Cambodia and Myanmar.
Key areas identified for collaboration include alternative energy, aerospace, aviation, smart power grids, and artificial intelligence infrastructure. France reiterated its support for finalizing the negotiations on the Thailand-European Union free trade agreement by the end of the year. Initially launched in 2013, these trade talks were paused in 2014 but resumed in 2023, with the potential to unlock substantial economic benefits for both nations.
In addition to economic and technological sectors, both countries committed to enhancing their defense and cybersecurity cooperation. This includes joint efforts to tackle cybercrime, online scams, and transnational digital threats. Thailand also underscored its dedication to resolving border disputes with Cambodia through peaceful means and adherence to international law frameworks.
The announcement of the Joint Action Plan to Strengthen the Thai-French Partnership 2026-2028 marks a crucial milestone, laying the groundwork for a formal strategic partnership. During his visit, Anutin engaged with executives from prominent French companies such as Airbus, Imerys, EssilorLuxottica, IN Groupe, and Thales Group. These discussions aimed to attract further investments into Thailand’s high-tech and future industries, with French companies expressing confidence in the country’s investment climate. Notably, Airbus confirmed its intention to expand aviation and engineering operations in Thailand.