Prime Minister’s Visit to France Aims to Boost Thailand’s Soft Power and Economic Relations

Paris: The Prime Minister will fly to France tomorrow to promote Thailand's soft power. The Prime Minister will fly to France tomorrow for discussions with the French President, international organizations, and the Thai-French private sector as part of Team Thailand. The meeting will focus on proactive economic policies, supporting energy security, and promoting Thailand's soft power to the international community.

According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Ratchada Thanadirek, Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, revealed that Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul is scheduled to visit the Republic of France from May 21-27, 2026. During this visit, the Prime Minister will hold discussions with leaders and key figures from various sectors, including a meeting with His Excellency Mr. Emmanuel Macron, President of France. This meeting will serve as a platform to strengthen relations between Thailand and France, aiming for a strategic partnership, especially as this year marks the 170th anniversary of the establishment of formal diplomatic relations between the two countries. Discussions will focus on cooperation in trade and investment, energy, transportation, military, and aviation.

The Prime Minister is also set to meet leaders of international organizations, including the Director-General of the International Energy Agency (IEA) to discuss energy security, and the Director-General of UNESCO to promote Thai culture globally. This includes efforts to register "Thai traditional dress" as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity, aiming to elevate Thailand's creative economy in fashion, handicrafts, tourism, and soft power internationally.

In addition, the Prime Minister will engage with the French private sector, including a meeting with French business leaders from MEDEF International. This engagement aims to attract French investment in Thailand's large-scale projects, particularly in aerospace, clean energy, and defense sectors where France holds expertise.

Furthermore, the Prime Minister will participate in discussions with Team Thailand, the Thai private sector, and the Thai community in France. These discussions will focus on promoting Thai culture and identity and enhancing the reputation of Thai brands internationally, thereby building a positive image of Thailand in France.