Foreign Affairs Minister Maris to visit China for pivotal talks

Foreign Affairs Minister Maris Sangiampongsa is set to visit China next week at the invitation of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. The visit, scheduled from Monday, July 8 to Wednesday, July 10, will see Maris and Wang co-chair the second Thailand-China Foreign Affairs Ministerial Meeting, aiming to strengthen cooperation and support between the two nations.

Nikorndej Balankura, a spokesperson for the ministry, stated that discussions will cover support for agricultural products, investment in innovation, tackling regional air pollution, and preparations for next year’s 50th anniversary of Thailand-China bilateral ties, along with other regional affairs.

Maris is also slated to meet with Han Zheng, the Vice President of China, and Liu Jianchao, the head of the International Department of the Chinese Communist Party.

Questions have arisen about whether this visit could pave the way for Thailand to join the BRICS economic bloc. Nikorndej confirmed that Thailand’s membership bid will be addressed during Maris’s visit. He highlighted that, aside from Russia, China is a significant supporter of Thailand’s bid.

“I believe that China will reiterate their support for us.”

Regarding potential high-level visits by dignitaries from both countries next year, Nikorndej expressed confidence that preparations are underway for such visits to mark the 50th anniversary of the Thailand-China bilateral relationship, reported Bangkok Post.

“I believe they are in contact to determine which Chinese official will visit Thailand. We are always prepared to welcome official visits at the highest level.”

In related news, the US economy has been robust throughout 2024, buoyed by strong consumer spending, fiscal stimulus, and a thriving labour market. In contrast, Europe and Asia, particularly China, have faced economic challenges, with China’s real estate market issues impacting its overall economic performance.

In other news, China’s plans to extend the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) into Thailand are set to transform Southeast Asian trade. Chinese Premier Li Qiang announced the initiative during his visit to Malaysia on June 19.