Thailand and France have decided to elevate their bilateral relations to a strategic partnership, as agreed upon by Anutin Charnvirakul and Emmanuel Macron during their official meeting in Paris. The leaders’ discussions at the Élysée Palace centered on enhancing cooperation across various sectors, including trade, investment, cybersecurity, defense, and advanced technology. They also addressed regional issues concerning Cambodia and Myanmar.
The talks underscored a commitment to collaborate in cutting-edge industries such as alternative energy, aerospace, and smart power grids, along with the development of artificial intelligence infrastructure. Additionally, France reiterated its backing for the conclusion of the Thailand-European Union free trade agreement negotiations within the year. Originally initiated in 2013, these trade talks were paused in 2014 before being revived in 2023. Thai officials indicated that the agreement holds significant economic promise for both nations.
Defense and cybersecurity were also key topics of discussion, with both countries agreeing to intensify efforts against cybercrime, online scams, and transnational digital threats. In the realm of regional diplomacy, Thailand reaffirmed its dedication to peacefully resolving border disputes with Cambodia, adhering to frameworks of international law.
To further cement their cooperation, Thailand and France plan to implement the Joint Action Plan to Strengthen the Thai-French Partnership 2026-2028, laying the groundwork for an official strategic partnership. During his time in France, Anutin also engaged with executives from leading French companies such as Airbus, Imerys, EssilorLuxottica, IN Groupe, and Thales Group, aiming to attract more investment into Thailand’s high-tech and future-oriented sectors.
French companies expressed optimism about Thailand’s investment climate, with Airbus confirming intentions to expand its aviation and engineering operations there. This meeting between Thai and French leadership signals a deepening of ties and a mutual commitment to collaborative growth and regional stability.