The recent, third Thailand-Georgia Political Consultations, held on September 9, 2025, in Tbilisi, represent a potentially significant, albeit nascent, strategic alignment. While seemingly disparate geographically, the discussions surrounding enhanced cooperation between the two nations underscore a broader trend of Southeast Asian nations seeking diverse diplomatic and economic avenues, particularly within the strategically important Caucasus region. The engagement, focused on bolstering ties across multiple sectors, demonstrates a deliberate effort by Thailand to diversify its international partnerships and establish a foothold in a traditionally Euro-Atlantic dominated sphere of influence.
Historically, Thailand’s foreign policy has centered on strengthening relationships within ASEAN and maintaining neutrality in global power dynamics. However, the evolving geopolitical landscape, including increasing competition for influence in Central Asia, has prompted a recalibration. Georgia, a nation still grappling with unresolved territorial disputes stemming from the 2008 Russo-Georgian War and facing ongoing security challenges from Russia, presents a compelling, if complex, opportunity. The country’s ambition to join the European Union and NATO further legitimizes its position as a critical bridge between Eastern and Western strategic interests.
Key stakeholders involved extend beyond the Thai and Georgian governments. The Director-General of the Department of European Affairs, Mrs. Krongkanit Rakcharoen, represents Thailand’s commitment to navigating the complexities of European diplomacy. Mr. Karlo Sikharulidze, Director-General of the Department of Global Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia, embodies the Georgian side’s determination to actively engage with diverse partners. Furthermore, the discussions with Mr. Givi Zedelashvili, Head of Trade Development and International Economic Relations Department, underscore the vital role of economic collaboration as a cornerstone of the relationship. “Georgia’s strategic location, combined with its efforts to modernize its economy, creates a compelling proposition for Thai investment and trade,” noted Dr. Zlatan Horvat, a Senior Analyst at the Centre for Strategic Research in Sofia, during a recent briefing. “Thailand’s deep pockets and established trade networks could unlock significant growth opportunities for the Georgian economy.”
The specific areas of cooperation discussed – high-level visits, economic, trade, investment, tourism, science and technology, and agriculture – reflect a calculated approach. Thailand’s demonstrated interest in tourism development and agricultural technology, combined with Georgia’s ambitious infrastructure projects, could yield synergistic benefits. The logistics and connectivity sector, particularly utilizing Georgia’s Black Sea port facilities, represents a potentially lucrative area for Thai businesses. “Thailand is keenly aware of the vulnerabilities within existing trade routes and seeks alternative pathways to access markets in Central Asia and Eastern Europe,” stated Dr. Nattapol Wongpanit, Professor of International Relations at Chulalongkorn University, “Georgia offers a landlocked, but strategically located, access point that can be integrated into Thailand’s broader economic strategy.”
Recent developments over the past six months reinforce the importance of this alignment. Georgia’s continued efforts to strengthen its ties with the European Union, culminating in the ratification of the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (DCFTA) in early 2025, created a more receptive environment. Simultaneously, Thailand’s own strategic focus on cultivating relationships within the ‘Global South’ – particularly with nations in Africa and Southeast Asia – has intensified. The exploration of joint ventures in renewable energy, specifically solar and wind power, has become a visible focus. Furthermore, Georgia’s advancements in digital infrastructure and fintech, supported by international investment, present opportunities for technological collaboration.
Looking ahead, the short-term (next 6 months) is likely to see continued high-level dialogues and the exploration of pilot projects in areas such as tourism promotion and agricultural technology transfer. Longer-term (5-10 years), the development of a more robust economic partnership is possible, predicated on sustained political stability in Georgia and continued investment by Thailand. However, the relationship’s ultimate success hinges on Georgia’s ability to resolve its territorial disputes with Russia, a persistent obstacle. The alignment also requires careful navigation of geopolitical tensions, particularly concerning Russia’s ongoing influence in the Caucasus. The strategic significance of this burgeoning relationship remains to be seen, but it represents a potentially vital component in Thailand’s broader effort to expand its diplomatic footprint and secure access to critical markets and strategic locations – a truly fascinating, albeit nascent, geopolitical play.