In a significant diplomatic development, H.E. Mr. Dusit Manapan, Advisor to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, accompanied H.E. Ms. Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Prime Minister, to the 2nd ASEAN – GCC Summit on the sidelines of the 46th ASEAN Summit and other related meetings in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on 27 May 2025.
The announcement made on 27 May 2025 marks a significant milestone in Thailand’s efforts to strengthen its ties with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. Prime Minister Paetongtarn reaffirmed Thailand’s commitment to continuing the momentum from the 1st ASEAN-GCC Summit, held on 20 October 2023 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
During the summit, Prime Minister Paetongtarn expressed Thailand’s readiness and highlighted its potential to advance cooperation with GCC countries—particularly in the halal industry, energy, supply chain resilience, medical tourism, and green transition agenda support. She also emphasized the importance of strengthening ties with all six GCC member countries: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia.
The summit provided an opportunity for Prime Minister Paetongtarn to exchange views on regional and international issues, including the situation in Gaza. She joined other ASEAN and GCC leaders in calling on all parties to end violence and continue efforts toward a ceasefire and hostage release agreement as a basis for unimpeded humanitarian assistance.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn also expressed appreciation for the diplomatic efforts that have led to the release of Thai nationals, underscoring Thailand’s commitment to protecting its citizens abroad.
This significant development underscores Thailand’s growing importance in regional and international affairs. The country’s efforts to strengthen ties with GCC countries reflect its strategic position as a bridge between East Asia and the Middle East.
Thailand’s strong engagement with ASEAN and GCC member countries is crucial for promoting economic cooperation, cultural exchange, and people-to-people diplomacy. The country’s commitment to advancing cooperation in key areas such as trade, energy, and tourism demonstrates its leadership role in regional affairs.
In conclusion, Thailand’s participation in the 2nd ASEAN-GCC Summit marks a significant milestone in the country’s diplomatic efforts to strengthen ties with GCC countries. The summit provides an opportunity for Prime Minister Paetongtarn to reaffirm Thailand’s commitment to advancing cooperation in key areas and promoting regional stability and security.
Key Highlights:
- Thailand committed to enhancing ASEAN-GCC cooperation, particularly in halal industry, energy, and medical tourism.
- Prime Minister Paetongtarn emphasized the importance of strengthening ties with all six GCC member countries.
- The summit provided an opportunity for Prime Minister Paetongtarn to exchange views on regional and international issues, including the situation in Gaza.
Source:
The announcement was made by H.E. Mr. Dusit Manapan, Advisor to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, on 27 May 2025.
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