In a statement released on 3 Jul 2025, Thailand and the European Union (EU) welcomed their first joint committee meeting under the Comprehensive Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA), marking a significant milestone in their diplomatic efforts.
The meeting, co-chaired by Mrs. Krongkanit Rakcharoen, Director-General of the Department of European Affairs, and Ms. Paola Pampaloni, Deputy Managing Director for Asia and the Pacific, European External Action Service (EEAS), highlighted both sides' commitment to advancing a reliable and trusted partnership amidst geopolitical tensions and global economic turbulence.
The discussion focused on bilateral issues of mutual interest, including the speedy conclusion of the Thai-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations, security cooperation on combating transnational crimes and online scams, sustainable development, climate action, environment, green transition, education, science, technology, and innovation. Thailand's request for Schengen visa exemption for Thai ordinary passport holders was also addressed by both parties.
The EU took note of Thailand's emphasis on these areas, while the Thai delegation expressed appreciation for the EU's support in strengthening regional and global partnerships.
To facilitate cooperation, three specialized working groups were established: (1) human rights and governance; (2) trade and investment; and (3) sustainable development and green transition. These groups will work closely with the Thailand-EU Joint Committee to achieve tangible and mutually beneficial outcomes.
Thailand will host the second Thailand-EU Joint Committee Meeting in 2026, further solidifying their partnership. The successful inaugural meeting marks a significant step forward for the Comprehensive Partnership and Cooperation Agreement, which has been provisionally applied since 20 October 2024.
This diplomatic development underscores Thailand's commitment to strengthening its relationships with key international partners, including the EU, to address global challenges and promote regional stability.
Key Outcomes:
Establishment of three specialized working groups for human rights and governance, trade and investment, and sustainable development and green transition.
Emphasis on bilateral cooperation in areas such as FTA negotiations, security, sustainable development, climate action, environment, and innovation.
Thailand's request for Schengen visa exemption for Thai ordinary passport holders was addressed by both parties.
Conclusion:
The successful inaugural meeting between Thailand and the EU marks a significant step forward for their Comprehensive Partnership and Cooperation Agreement. By strengthening bilateral cooperation in key areas, both sides aim to address global challenges and promote regional stability.