Bangkok: The Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army, General Phana Klaewplodthuk, extended a warm welcome to Mr. Jean-Claude Pointeuf, the French Ambassador to Thailand, at the Royal Thai Army Headquarters. The meeting focused on enhancing military cooperation and education, with an emphasis on Thailand's commitment to peaceful resolutions of border disputes.
According to Thai News Agency, the discussions also celebrated the 340th anniversary of the first French envoy's visit during the reign of King Narai the Great and the 170th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and France. These relations have now been elevated to a "strategic partnership," highlighting economic cooperation alongside military security, showcasing the enduring ties between the two nations.
In terms of defense industry collaboration, the Royal Thai Army and the French Ministry of Defense have a letter of intent covering the procurement and maintenance of key military equipment. France has also invited the Thai Army Chief to the Eurosatory Land Force Exhibition in June 2026, aimed at exchanging defense knowledge to aid the future development of the armed forces.
The educational partnership remains strong, with the French Army continuing to offer placements for the Royal Thai Army at the Saint-Cyr Military Academy. France also plans to send cadets to Thailand for a two-month exchange program in the future, which the Royal Thai Army supports.
During the meeting, General Klaewplodthuk reiterated Thailand's stance on the Thai-Cambodian border situation, emphasizing adherence to international law principles of self-defense. He stressed that Thailand has not initiated any clashes and is committed to the ceasefire agreement, focusing on resolving issues through negotiation. The French ambassador expressed neutrality and regret over the losses, offering to provide historical documents and archives to aid in peaceful resolution efforts.