Thai PM attends Thailand-France Business Forum

On May 16, 2024, the Hon. Mr. Srettha Thavisin, Prime Minister, paid a visit to France to attend the Thailand-France Business Forum to strengthen bilateral economic ties, as a result of his previous discussions with H.E. Mr. Emmanuel Macron, President of France. He was accompanied on this visit by the Hon. Mr. Maris Sangiampongsa, Minister of Foreign Affairs.

In his opening speech, the Prime Minister highlighted Thailand’s economic potential as well as business opportunities for the private sectors of both sides, while underscoring the commitment to supporting and facilitating foreign investment in Thailand. He also outlined a vision focused on elevating Thailand to a global industrial hub and moving towards sustainability, in line with Thailand’s international commitment.

During this event, the Minister of Foreign Affairs co-chaired a business round table with the Delegate Minister of Foreign Trade and Economic Attractiveness of France, which was attended by business representatives from key industrial sectors: Energy/Mobility, Space, Defence, Food and Hospitality. The private sectors also signed Memorandums of Understanding between companies of both parties.

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On this occasion, HE Emmanuel Macron, President of the French Republic, hosted a lunch in honor of the Prime Minister at the Elysee Palace.

Both sides explored further cooperation in areas such as trade and investment, security and defense industries, transportation, clean energy, Artificial Intelligence and space technology, and also exchanged views on global and regional issues. Among other things, the Prime Minister raised the issues of the Thailand-EU Free Trade Agreement negotiations and visa-free access to the Schengen area for ordinary Thai passport holders.

The private sectors also signed Memorandums of Understanding between companies from both parties

Both sides agreed to hold the Second Thailand-France Business Forum in Thailand in September 2024, with the participation of French private sectors.

Thailand and France have shared close historical ties for more than three centuries. The year 2025 will mark the 340th anniversary of Siam-France relations. Both sides will also commemorate the 170th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations in 2026.