UK Foreign Secretary Cameron elevates trade links in Thailand

United Kingdom Foreign Secretary David Cameron arrives in Bangkok today in a bid to strengthen trade and economic ties between the politically beleaguered UK and the burgeoning Thailand.

The former British prime minister intends to sign a UK-Thai strategic partnership roadmap on his inaugural visit to the Indo-Pacific region. This roadmap is designed to enhance collaboration on defence, healthcare, and climate initiatives between the two nations.

The 57 year old Lord Cameron expressed his belief that collaboration with Bangkok would yield “jobs and growth back here” in Britain as he embarked on this journey. Following his engagements in Thailand, Cameron is scheduled to proceed to Australia for the annual Australia-UK ministerial consultations (AUKMIN).

Thailand holds significant importance as a key partner for the UK in the Indo-Pacific region, which the UK has prioritised in its foreign policy agenda. Cameron emphasised Thailand’s crucial role in advancing peace and reconciliation in Myanmar, as well as in upholding international law and promoting regional cooperation.

“South East Asia is a commercial powerhouse and Thailand is one of the biggest economies of the lot. Working with countries in this region means jobs and growth back here in the UK.

“Thailand is a founding member of ASEAN and an influential player across the Indo-Pacific region. We will continue to work with them to address shared global challenges that affect us all – including the impacts of climate change, rapid technological development, and threats to global health.”

The former UK Prime Minister, who controversially introduced a referendum to leave the EU during his tenure from 2010 to 2016, and earned the nickname “Dodgy Dave” from Labour MP Dennis Skinner due to his handling of the Panama Papers scandal, is set to highlight UK-Thailand defence cooperation during his visit to a military airbase. Here, he will inspect fighter jets assembled with British components, contributing over £300 million (13.7 billion baht) to the UK economy through exports.

Additionally, Cameron will unveil the launch of a fund worth up to £6 million (275 million baht) aimed at promoting green growth in Thailand, focusing on sustainable transport and carbon pricing initiatives.

The former Tory leader will collaborate with Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin to establish a UK-Thailand strategic partnership roadmap, as announced by the Foreign Office. This roadmap aims to enhance bilateral relations in defence, climate and energy, trade and investment, agriculture, digital technology, health, and education, particularly in anticipation of next year’s 170th anniversary of UK-Thai diplomatic ties.

Following his engagements in Thailand, Cameron will proceed to Australia for the Aukmin summit, reported The Evening Standard.