Trump and Thailand: PM Paetongtarn pledges to strengthen ties

In a historic phone call, Thailand’s youngest Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, reached out to congratulate US President-elect Donald Trump on his election victory, underscoring Thailand’s commitment to a robust alliance with Washington.

The conversation, which took place at 9.50am today, November 19, as disclosed by government spokesperson Jirayu Huangsub, marks an early push to fortify diplomatic and economic ties between the two nations.

During the call, the Thai premier not only conveyed her congratulations but also expressed Thailand’s eagerness to work closely with Trump’s incoming administration.

“Thailand is ready to collaborate with the United States and is keen to explore opportunities for high-level visits.”

PM Paetongtarn extended an open invitation, expressing Thailand’s readiness to host President Trump, which could set the stage for significant diplomatic exchanges.

Trump, meanwhile, was full of praise for the 38 year old Thai PM and Thailand’s natural beauty. He commended the Thai leader’s efforts and remarked, “Anything I can do, you let me know,” emphasising his enthusiasm for further engagement.

Trump’s remarks point to a promising future for the US-Thai partnership, especially given Thailand’s strategic position as Washington’s oldest treaty ally in Asia. With this historic relationship, Thailand holds a unique influence in regional security and is a vital participant in annual joint military exercises with the US.

In economic matters, the call comes at a pivotal moment, as Trump’s potential tariffs on Chinese goods could boost Thai exports to the US, already Thailand’s top export destination.

With increased trade on the table, Thailand’s Commerce Ministry is eyeing expanded exports to drive economic growth amid the shifting Asian trade landscape, according to the Royal Thai Government news and as reported by Devdiscourse.

In related news, Trump’s victory in the US presidential election, coupled with a comprehensive Republican majority in Congress, prompted a reevaluation of investment strategies in the Thai stock market.