The historical context of this development is rooted in Thailand’s long-standing diplomatic ties with France, formalized through numerous treaties and cooperative ventures dating back to the early 20th century. However, recent developments – including the increasingly assertive role of China in Southeast Asia and persistent security anxieties surrounding maritime disputes in the South China Sea – have prompted a re-evaluation of Thailand’s foreign policy priorities. France, historically a significant partner in Thailand’s modernization efforts, offers a stable and strategically aligned counterweight to China, representing a bedrock of expertise and mutual interests. The partnership seeks to elevate and adapt cooperation modalities at the bilateral, trilateral and regional levels to keep pace with an evolving global context.
Key stakeholders in this evolving landscape include the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Thailand International Cooperation Agency (TICA), the AFD, and, increasingly, Expertise France (EF) and its partner, the Thailand-Africa Initiative (TAI). Motivations are multifaceted: Thailand seeks to enhance its influence within the ASEAN bloc, secure crucial funding for its development programs, and bolster its regional security posture. France, similarly, aims to expand its influence in Southeast Asia and reinforce its commitment to sustainable development globally. The TAI, formally launched in 2023, represents a tangible commitment to addressing critical development challenges across the African continent. Recent data from the World Bank indicates that Sub-Saharan Africa received roughly 18% of global official development assistance in 2024, with France and Germany consistently among the largest contributors – a figure expected to increase further given Thailand’s renewed focus.
“The relationship between Thailand and France is based on a shared commitment to values like democracy, human rights, and sustainable development,” stated Jérémie Pellet, CEO of Expertise France, during a press briefing following the signing. “This new work plan provides a framework for deepening our collaboration on vital projects, particularly in areas where Thailand’s expertise and resources can complement our own.” Further bolstering this alignment, a recent survey by the ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute highlighted a growing trend of Southeast Asian nations seeking to broaden their partnerships beyond traditional Western alliances, seeking strategic opportunities in Africa and Latin America. According to Dr. Somsak Jaturawong, Senior Fellow at the Thailand Development Research Centre, “Thailand’s engagement in Africa is not merely philanthropic; it’s a calculated move to diversify its geopolitical interests and access new markets, particularly within the context of evolving trade dynamics.”
Recent developments have accelerated this trend. The December 2025 Thailand-Africa Development Forum (TADF) in Bangkok solidified the TAI’s role, generating momentum for pilot trilateral projects focused on infrastructure development, agricultural technology, and renewable energy – initially prioritized in Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire. The agreement includes a specific clause for joint collaboration with the European Investment Bank (EIB) on large-scale infrastructure projects, signaling a willingness to engage with established European financial institutions. Furthermore, TICA is reportedly exploring opportunities for technical assistance programs in digital infrastructure development within several African nations, aligning with Thailand’s own burgeoning technological sector. “The goal isn’t simply to write checks,” explained Cyrille Bellier, Director for Europe, Middle East, and Asia at the AFD, “but to establish genuine partnerships built on mutual trust and a shared vision for sustainable development.”
Looking ahead, over the next six months, we can anticipate a formal launch of the pilot trilateral projects in Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire, accompanied by intensified diplomatic engagement between Thai and African counterparts. Longer-term (5-10 years), Thailand’s influence within the TAI is likely to expand, potentially creating a regional hub for South-South cooperation and attracting investment from other Asian nations. However, challenges remain. Dependence on external funding sources presents a vulnerability, and logistical hurdles associated with operating across multiple time zones and regulatory environments could prove problematic. Furthermore, the success of the TAI hinges on addressing governance issues and security concerns within partner nations, particularly in regions with ongoing instability.
Despite these challenges, Thailand’s strategic pivot signals a determined effort to reshape its role in the 21st-century global order. It raises critical questions about the future of regional alliances, the evolving landscape of development diplomacy, and the potential for Southeast Asia to become a more influential force in addressing global challenges. The key now lies in translating these commitments into tangible results – a question that demands continuous scrutiny and robust analysis. What long-term impact will this expanded engagement have on Thailand’s internal development trajectory, and how will it affect the delicate balance of power within the ASEAN region? It’s a story that warrants sustained attention.