The recent visit of Ms. Sasirit Tangulrat, Director-General of the Department of South Asian, Middle East and African Affairs, to the Republic of Botswana highlights Thailand's renewed commitment to fostering strong ties with African countries. The meeting between Thai officials and Senior Officer Ms. Feziwe Matsebula of the SADC Secretariat marked a significant step towards enhancing cooperation in areas such as food security, agriculture, public health, and sustainable development.
Thailand's engagement with Africa is deeply rooted in its history, dating back to 1955 when it was one of the 29 countries participating in the Asian-African Conference, also known as the Bandung Conference. This historic event marked a significant moment in the formation of the Non-Aligned Movement and laid the groundwork for Thailand's long-standing friendship with African nations.
The Thai government has been steadily strengthening its partnerships with regional organizations, including the SADC, to promote mutual understanding and cooperation. The recent agreement to appoint an Ambassador of Thailand to Botswana as the Ambassador and Special Representative to SADC is a testament to this commitment. This move not only underscores Thailand's dedication to fostering strong relationships but also highlights the country's willingness to take on more prominent regional leadership roles.
Thai officials have expressed enthusiasm for inviting SADC representatives to participate in the upcoming Thailand-Africa Development Forum (TADF), scheduled to be held in September 2025. The TADF aims to promote knowledge sharing, brainstorm ideas on innovative solutions, and build partnerships among stakeholders from both regions. By engaging with African nations through these forums, Thailand seeks to leverage its expertise in areas such as sustainable agriculture, renewable energy, and digital innovation.
Thailand's Africa strategy is built upon several pillars:
1. Strengthening Regional Partnerships: Enhancing cooperation with regional organizations, including SADC, to promote mutual understanding and development.
2. Fostering Stronger Bilateral Relations: Strengthening ties with individual African countries through diplomatic engagements, trade agreements, and people-to-people exchanges.
3. Promoting Economic Growth: Supporting sustainable development, investing in key sectors such as agriculture, renewable energy, and digital innovation.
Expert Insights
Dr. Suparat Phornpratap, Senior Research Fellow at the Institute for Southeast Asian Studies (ISEAS), highlights Thailand's strategic importance in the African continent: "Thailand is taking a proactive approach to strengthening its relationships with African countries. By engaging in regional forums and fostering strong bilateral ties, Thailand can tap into Africa's vast resources and opportunities."
Ambassador Pisit Wongsawat, former Thai ambassador to South Africa, emphasizes the significance of SADC-Thailand cooperation: "The SADC region is crucial for Thailand's foreign policy strategy. By strengthening our relationships with these countries, we can unlock new trade opportunities, promote cultural exchange, and foster greater regional stability."
Dr. Piyapong Uthai, Director General at the Department of Foreign Affairs, remarks on Thailand's role in African development: "Thailand is committed to supporting sustainable development in Africa through its expertise in key sectors such as agriculture, renewable energy, and digital innovation. By leveraging our strengths, we can contribute meaningfully to Africa's economic growth and development."
In conclusion, Thailand's commitment to fostering strong ties with African countries marks a new chapter in the country's foreign policy. By strengthening regional partnerships, fostering stronger bilateral relations, and promoting economic growth, Thailand is poised to become a leading player in Southeast Asian-led regional cooperation in Africa.
Timeline of Recent Developments
August 25, 2025: Ms. Sasirit Tangulrat, Director-General of the Department of South Asian, Middle East and African Affairs, met with Senior Officer Ms. Feziwe Matsebula of the SADC Secretariat.
September 2025: The Thailand-Africa Development Forum (TADF) is scheduled to be held in Thailand.
Key Statistics
29 countries participated in the Asian-African Conference (Bandung Conference) in 1955
16.6% of Africa's population lives below $1.90 per day