Bangkok: Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul met with Vietnamese President To Lam in Hanoi on Tuesday to advance the "Hand in Hand and Grow Together" vision and strengthen the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two nations. The meeting follows the Vietnamese president's official visit to Thailand last week. Anutin, accompanied by nine cabinet ministers and military chiefs, emphasized Thailand's commitment to elevating bilateral ties across all dimensions, including security and economy.
According to Thai News Agency, the two leaders pledged to accelerate economic cooperation through the "Three Connects" strategy, aiming to reach a bilateral trade target of $25 billion this year, with a future goal of expanding to $50 billion. The discussions focused on green economy initiatives and achieving net-zero emissions.
On defense, both sides agreed to enhance security and law enforcement mechanisms, including a proposed "2+2" ministerial dialogue between their respective foreign and defense ministries. Thailand also reassured Vietnam that it would not allow its territory to be used by groups operating against neighboring countries.
Anutin raised concerns from Thai investors regarding regulatory changes in Vietnam. In response, President To Lam assured that Vietnam values Thai investment, promising that new laws would not be applied retroactively and that relevant agencies would resolve outstanding issues.
As a symbol of bilateral friendship and environmental cooperation, Thailand also confirmed it will deliver 12 sarus cranes to Vietnam later this year.