Trudeau applauds Thailand’s marraige equality law

In a high-stakes diplomatic encounter at the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits, Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau shook hands over a landmark moment for LGBTQ+ rights.

Meeting yesterday, October 10 at the National Convention Centre, Trudeau didn’t hold back in praising Thailand’s trailblazing move on marriage equality, noting it as a “first” for ASEAN.

With Thailand becoming the first ASEAN nation to pass marriage equality legislation, Trudeau lauded the country’s commitment to human rights and social progress.

“Thailand’s focus on human rights is commendable and this legal achievement stands as a testament to that.”

But it wasn’t all about rainbows and rights. The two leaders set their sights on bolstering bilateral cooperation, with a strong focus on education and vocational training, reported Pattaya Mail.

Thai government spokesperson Jirayu Huangsap revealed that Prime Minister Paetongtarn stressed the importance of ramping up economic ties, to increase trade and investment. Direct flights between Thailand and Canada were also in the spotlight as a way to boost tourism, said the Thai premier as both leaders looked forward to finalising the long-anticipated ASEAN-Canada Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

“Strengthening economic ties with Canada is a key priority.”

In related news, PM Paetongtarn attended the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits at the National Convention Centre in Laos at 9.30am on Wednesday, October 9.

Upon arrival, the Thai premier received a warm welcome from Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone and his wife. The 38 year old Thai prime minister addressed the assembly, underscoring the need for Collective Leadership within ASEAN to tackle regional issues and enhance the well-being of its 700 million citizens.

In other news, Thailand and South Korea have committed to enhancing cooperation in various sectors, including soft power development, electric vehicles (EVs), and labour issues. PM Paetongtarn met with South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol yesterday, October 10, during the ASEAN summit in Vientiane.