Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin outlined his administration’s foreign policy this week, stating that Thailand will maintain neutrality amid increasing geopolitical competition. In a speech delivered to officials at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Srettha detailed a strategy of proactive diplomacy designed to advance the nation’s economic interests and strategic position on the global stage.
The Prime Minister stated that Thailand should not be required to choose sides between major powers, referencing the ongoing rivalry between the United States and China. He described Thailand’s position as a “geopolitical sweet spot,” which he said allows the country to engage constructively with all nations.
“We must use our neutrality to our advantage,” Srettha told ministry officials. He directed Thai diplomats to focus on creating balance in foreign relations and to avoid being drawn into international conflicts.
Srettha connected this diplomatic approach to his government’s “Ignite Thailand” vision, an economic plan aimed at establishing the country as a hub in eight key sectors, including aviation, tourism, and logistics. A central component of this strategy is the Land Bridge project, a proposed infrastructure initiative to connect the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, which the government is promoting to international investors.
He instructed diplomats to function as “salespeople” for the country, with a primary mission of promoting trade, attracting investment, and boosting tourism to support the national economy.
The policy address also introduced the newly appointed Foreign Minister, Maris Sangiampongsa, a veteran diplomat who previously served as an advisor to the foreign minister and as an ambassador to several countries. Srettha said Maris’s extensive experience was vital for implementing the government’s proactive diplomatic agenda.
In his remarks, Srettha also addressed regional matters, including the situation in neighboring Myanmar. He noted that Thailand has provided humanitarian assistance and will continue to engage in diplomatic efforts related to the issue.
Following his appointment, Foreign Minister Maris is scheduled to undertake his first official trip abroad to Cambodia. He is also slated to attend upcoming ASEAN foreign ministers’ meetings in Laos, where he is expected to represent Thailand’s policy positions.
