BEIJING/BANGKOK – Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra made her first official visit to China on February 5–6, meeting Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing at a crucial time for bilateral relations. Her visit came as Thailand ramps up efforts to strengthen security cooperation and push forward key infrastructure projects with China, signaling the government’s strategic focus on deepening diplomatic and economic ties with its largest trading partner.
Action Against Cross-Border Crime Marks a Diplomatic Opening
Just days before her visit, Ms. Paetongtarn’s government made a bold move to curb cross-border scam operations in neighboring Myanmar. On February 5, Bangkok cut power supplies to border regions where scam syndicates have thrived. This came in response to heightened national and international scrutiny following the high-profile abduction of a Chinese actor in Thailand, who was taken to Myanmar in January.
The crackdown on such criminal networks received significant attention in China, underlining the shared security concerns between Bangkok and Beijing. During their meeting at the Great Hall of the People on February 6, President Xi praised Thailand’s efforts, saying, “China appreciates Thailand’s strong measures to combat online gambling and electronic fraud.”
Accelerating the Thailand-China High-Speed Railway Project
A key focus of the talks was the stalled Thailand-China high-speed railway project. On February 4, just ahead of Ms. Paetongtarn’s departure, the Thai Cabinet approved the second phase of the railway, which will extend from Nakhon Ratchasima to Nong Khai in northeastern Thailand. The project is part of a broader plan to connect Thailand with China’s Yunnan province via Laos, enhancing regional connectivity and economic integration.
President Xi emphasized the importance of expediting the railway project and strengthening China-Laos-Thailand connectivity, noting, “China is willing to work with Thailand to implement flagship projects and achieve tangible results at an early date.”
Strengthening Economic and Agricultural Cooperation
In addition to infrastructure and security, Ms. Paetongtarn expressed her commitment to boosting economic ties and expanding cooperation in trade and agriculture. She highlighted the importance of high-level exchanges and deeper collaboration with China in these areas.
According to a statement released by the Chinese government, the two leaders agreed to work closely with neighboring countries to enhance regional law enforcement and security.
Looking Ahead to 50 Years of Diplomatic Relations
Thailand and China will mark 50 years of diplomatic relations in 2025. Both sides have expressed their intention to use this milestone as an opportunity to further strengthen cooperation in areas of mutual interest. (zai)