Thailand, China Boost Crime Crackdown Cooperation in Bangkok Talks

Thailand and China have agreed to deepen cooperation on transnational crime and scam syndicates following high-level talks in Bangkok on 24 April. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said tackling cross-border criminal networks would be prioritised under an upgraded bilateral framework. The move aims to strengthen public safety and confidence while reinforcing broader strategic ties.

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Government spokesperson Ratchada Thanadirek said Anutin thanked the Chinese government and President Xi Jinping for continued support for Thailand on the international stage. He also referenced the recent official visit to China by His Majesty the King and Her Majesty the Queen as a reflection of long-standing ties. Thailand expressed hope that China would continue supporting its development based on mutual trust and close neighbourly relations.

Wang welcomed the meeting with Anutin following his assumption of office and expressed confidence in Thailand’s economic management and development potential. He conveyed greetings from President Xi Jinping and his family to the Thai King and Queen, reaffirming China’s view of Thailand as a stable and reliable long-term partner. Both sides agreed to upgrade relations towards a more comprehensive strategic partnership with a joint action plan aligned to national development strategies.

The discussions also covered high-level exchanges and regional cooperation. China invited the Thai prime minister to attend the APEC Leaders’ Meeting in November 2026, while Thailand invited Chinese Premier Li Qiang to visit, an invitation accepted in principle. On regional matters, China noted improving Thailand-Cambodia relations, with both sides stressing the importance of continued cooperation and understanding.

Security cooperation featured prominently, particularly efforts to combat transnational crime and scam gangs, which both countries said have wide-ranging public impacts. The issue will be formally included in the joint action plan, alongside mechanisms for practical cooperation through meetings and joint activities at multiple levels. Officials said the talks reflected a high degree of trust and a focus on delivering tangible outcomes.

Khaosod reported that both countries will coordinate schedules for upcoming visits and begin implementing the agreed action plan. Further cooperation is expected across security, trade and regional initiatives as part of the strengthened partnership. Authorities say progress will be measured through sustained engagement and concrete results.

Pictures courtesy of Khaosod

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosod 25 Apr 2026