Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and his wife attended a gala dinner hosted by Russian President Vladimir Putin in Kazan, Russia, on 17 June 2026, ahead of the ASEAN-Russia Commemorative Summit. The event formed part of celebrations marking the 35th anniversary of relations between ASEAN and Russia and brought together heads of state and government from ASEAN member countries.
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Anutin, who also serves as Interior Minister, travelled to Kazan with an official delegation to participate in the ASEAN-Russia Commemorative Summit taking place from 16-19 June 2026. The summit is being held to commemorate 35 years of cooperation and diplomatic relations between ASEAN and the Russian Federation.
Earlier on 17 June, the Thai prime minister attended the ASEAN-Russia Business Forum, a platform designed to promote trade and investment cooperation between Russia and ASEAN member states. The forum focused on strengthening business links and exploring new economic opportunities between the two sides.
Picture courtesy of Amarin
Later that day, Anutin and his wife joined the gala dinner hosted by Putin. The reception was held at the Galiasgar Kamal Tatar State Theatre and served as an official welcoming event for ASEAN leaders and government representatives attending the summit.
Guests also attended a cultural performance during the evening programme. The event was one of the key activities scheduled before the formal ASEAN-Russia Commemorative Summit sessions due to begin the following day.
The gathering highlighted ongoing engagement between Russia and ASEAN countries as both sides seek to expand economic, political and cultural cooperation. The gala dinner provided an opportunity for leaders and delegates to meet informally before the start of official summit discussions.
Amarin reported that the ASEAN-Russia Commemorative Summit is expected to focus on regional cooperation, economic partnerships and broader engagement between Russia and ASEAN member states. Outcomes from the meetings and business discussions are expected to shape future collaboration between the two sides as they mark the 35-year milestone in their relationship.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Amarin 19 June 2026