The event held in Bangkok served as more than a historical reflection; it showcased Thailand’s current efforts to cement its position as a key player in regional stability and economic development. H.E. Mr. Sarun Charoensuwan, Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, articulated a strategy centered on elevating the Thailand-France relationship to a “Strategic Partnership.” This reflects a broader trend among Southeast Asian nations – a move away from purely transactional alliances toward frameworks built on shared values and mutual interests. The emphasis on sectors such as renewable energy, green economy, digital technology, and cyber security demonstrates a deliberate effort to align Thailand’s development priorities with global trends and to attract investment in technologically advanced industries.
Historically, the foundations of this partnership were laid in 1685 with the reign of King Narai, a period of considerable intellectual and cultural exchange between Siam and France. The Treaty of Friendship, Commerce, and Navigation of 1856 solidified this connection, establishing a framework for trade and diplomatic relations. However, the 19th-century treaty, while a cornerstone of the partnership, also carried significant colonial undertones, a sensitive matter for Thailand’s national narrative. Throughout the 20th century, cooperation evolved through periods of collaboration with the French Protectorate of Indochina and, subsequently, within the framework of ASEAN. Data from the Thai Ministry of Commerce indicates that French investment in Thailand peaked in the 1990s, primarily focused on infrastructure development and automotive manufacturing, before declining following the Asian Financial Crisis. The most recent figures show a steady, though modest, flow of trade, with Thailand’s primary exports including agricultural products and electronics, and imports encompassing machinery, chemicals, and transportation equipment. According to the French Institute in Thailand, “France remains a critical market for Thai exports, accounting for approximately 8% of total Thai exports.”
The drive towards a “Strategic Partnership” is not solely motivated by economic considerations. Thailand’s geographic location, bordering both the volatile South China Sea and the politically complex Myanmar, necessitates strong diplomatic support. France, a permanent member of the UN Security Council and a key player in European security initiatives, represents a valuable guarantor of regional stability. Furthermore, Thailand’s ambition to shape regional norms and standards – particularly concerning maritime security and the management of transnational challenges – requires a coalition of like-minded partners. “France is uniquely positioned to contribute to these efforts, given its longstanding commitment to multilateralism and its expertise in areas such as counter-terrorism and maritime security,” stated Dr. Jean-Pierre Dubois, Senior Fellow at the Institute for Strategic Studies in Paris, during a recent lecture series at Chulalongkorn University.
However, several factors contribute to uncertainty surrounding this partnership. The rise of China as a regional economic and military power presents a significant challenge to Thailand’s strategic autonomy. China’s Belt and Road Initiative directly competes with France’s emphasis on sustainable and inclusive development. Moreover, Thailand’s internal political dynamics – marked by periods of instability and democratic transition – can impact its ability to maintain a consistent foreign policy direction. The upcoming 2026 Thai general election will undoubtedly influence Thailand’s diplomatic priorities, potentially leading to shifts in its strategic alliances. “Maintaining a stable and predictable foreign policy in the context of Thailand’s internal political landscape will be crucial for sustaining the ‘Strategic Partnership’ with France,” argues Professor Anusuya Sharma, a specialist in Southeast Asian politics at the National University of Singapore.
Looking ahead, Thailand’s ambition to diversify its partnerships while deepening its engagement with France indicates a calculated approach. Short-term outcomes are likely to involve continued trade and investment flows, alongside collaborative projects in areas aligned with Thailand’s development goals. Over the next 5-10 years, Thailand’s success in securing French support for its regional initiatives, particularly concerning maritime security and the resolution of conflicts in neighboring countries, will determine the durability of the “Strategic Partnership.” The evolving geopolitical landscape, including the intensifying competition between major powers and the increasing importance of technological innovation, presents both opportunities and risks for Thailand. Ultimately, Thailand’s success will depend on its ability to adapt its foreign policy to navigate these complexities while maintaining a commitment to its core values of regional cooperation, economic development, and national security. The continued celebration of Thailand’s 340-year relationship with France offers a valuable opportunity to reflect on the principles that underpin Thailand’s strategic outlook and the enduring importance of robust, multi-faceted partnerships in an increasingly interconnected world.