Historically, Thailand’s foreign policy has been largely defined by a pragmatic, non-aligned stance, bolstered by a strong alliance with the United States during the Cold War. However, over the last two decades, particularly following the 2008 financial crisis and the subsequent rise of China, Thailand’s strategic focus has begun to shift, largely dictated by its economic relationship with Beijing. The country’s deep commercial ties with China, encompassing infrastructure investments, trade, and increasingly, security cooperation, have created a delicate balancing act – a dependence that has, in turn, fostered a more cautious approach toward traditional Western partners. The visit of Miss Yacé, representing Côte d’Ivoire – a nation itself seeking increased economic engagement with China – underscores this dynamic.
Côte d’Ivoire, like Thailand, is heavily reliant on China for infrastructure development, trade, and investment. The country’s rapid industrialization, largely facilitated by Chinese loans and investment, presents both opportunities and vulnerabilities. The presence of a Miss Universe contestant, framed as a “Tourism Ambassador,” serves a dual purpose. Firstly, it provides a platform for promoting tourism – a key sector for Côte d’Ivoire’s economy – enhancing its international image and attracting potential investors. Secondly, and more strategically, it provides a tangible element of influence within the Thai diplomatic sphere, demonstrating Côte d’Ivoire’s growing importance on the global stage and, crucially, its commitment to forging stronger economic partnerships. According to a recent report by the ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute, “Southeast Asian nations are actively cultivating bilateral relationships with China to mitigate potential economic and geopolitical risks.”
The meeting’s focus on condolenses for Queen Sirikit, while traditionally a gesture of respect, was likely carefully orchestrated. The timing – coinciding with Miss Yacé’s official visit – amplified the symbolic value of the engagement. Thailand, seeking to solidify its relationships across diverse nations, particularly those aligning with China’s broader economic sphere, used the opportunity to demonstrate openness and engagement. Furthermore, the inclusion of a figurehead like Miss Universe, a globally recognized personality, offered a vehicle for expanding Thailand’s diplomatic reach. Data from the World Bank indicates that Thailand’s trade with African nations has increased by 18% over the last five years, mirroring broader trends of Chinese investment in the continent.
The exchange of views regarding “cooperation” – encompassing tourism, public health, and development – reflects a common thread in Thailand’s shifting foreign policy. It signals a willingness to embrace collaborative ventures, but on terms that prioritize its strategic interests. The emphasis on “people-to-people connection” – highlighted by Mr. Boon-Long – is a deliberate tactic. Cultivating positive relationships at the individual level is seen as a foundational element for fostering stronger political ties and smoothing the path for more complex commercial and security arrangements. This approach is consistent with broader trends of “south-south cooperation,” where nations in the developing world are increasingly seeking partnerships with each other, rather than solely relying on Western powers.
Looking ahead, the Miss Universe pageant, and similar events, are likely to become increasingly important tools in Thailand’s foreign policy arsenal. The short-term outcome – a strengthened connection between Thailand and Côte d’Ivoire – is already evident. Within the next six months, we can anticipate further initiatives aimed at expanding trade and investment between the two nations, potentially including joint ventures in renewable energy or digital infrastructure. Long-term, the implications are more profound. Thailand’s evolving strategic alignment with China, bolstered by events like this, could reshape the regional balance of power. Over the next five to ten years, Thailand’s diplomatic footprint will almost certainly expand further, driven by its deepening economic ties with Beijing and a growing recognition of the importance of “soft power” in a rapidly changing world. The careful choreography of events like the Miss Universe visit serves as a potent, if understated, demonstration of this evolving reality.