Hanoi: The Prime Minister of Thailand, Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra, led a delegation of ministers to the 4th Joint Cabinet Retreat (JCR) between Thailand and Vietnam, co-chaired with Vietnamese Prime Minister Mr. Pham Minh Chinh. The meeting focused on enhancing cooperation between the two nations in addressing transnational crimes, call center gangs, drug trafficking, and illegal fishing, as well as fostering trade, investment, and tourism relations.
According to Thai News Agency, the meeting took place at the Government Palace in Hanoi and marked Ms. Paethongtarn's first official visit to Vietnam. It was attended by key ministers from both countries, including Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Mr. Suriya Juangroongruangkit, and Vietnam's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Bui Thanh Son.
The Vietnamese Prime Minister highlighted the importance of Thailand's visit amidst global geopolitical challenges. Both countries committed to enhancing cooperation across security, economic, social, educational, and technological sectors. Ms. Paethongtarn expressed her satisfaction with the ongoing cooperation, which has roots in previous leaderships, and aimed to elevate Thai-Vietnamese relations.
Discussions covered three main areas: political and security cooperation, economic collaboration, and societal partnerships. Mr. Maris Sengiampong, Thailand's Minister of Foreign Affairs, proposed a 'Strategic Plan of Action' and mechanisms to combat drugs and transnational crimes. Vietnam agreed to these proposals, aiming for long-term security.
On the economic front, Mr. Chulaphan Amornvivat, Thailand's Deputy Minister of Finance, thanked Vietnam for facilitating Thai fruit exports to China and proposed expanding trade negotiations and QR Code payment integration. Vietnam agreed to enhance joint production and investment, focusing on sectors like agriculture and logistics.
In societal cooperation, Mr. Surawong Thienthong, Thailand's Minister of Tourism and Sports, suggested initiatives for seamless tourism connectivity and human resource development in modern technology. Vietnam supported these ideas and expressed willingness to participate in regional sports events hosted by Thailand.
The meeting concluded with both parties reaffirming their commitment to a "Comprehensive Strategic Partnership" and a shared vision of regional stability and prosperity. The Thai Prime Minister extended an invitation to the Vietnamese Prime Minister to visit Thailand for the upcoming Mekong-Lancang Summit.