Thailand's Balance in Global Shifts, Phumtham Advocates

[webfact]

Image courtesy of Observer Research Foundation

 

In a speech commemorating the 70th anniversary of the Thai Journalists Association, Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai addressed significant global challenges and stressed the importance of Thailand maintaining a neutral stance internationally.

 

Among his prominent points, Phumtham highlighted the array of issues facing Thailand, from economic shifts to security and environmental concerns, particularly in light of global changes driven by Donald Trump's influence on international dynamics.

 

Phumtham, who also holds the position of Defence Minister, emphasised that the return of Donald Trump to a leadership role significantly affects the global landscape.

 

"With Trump’s 'America First' policy gaining momentum again, the international economic and political scene is set for a reshuffle," he observed, noting that this involves potential explicit economic protectionist measures and a focus on bilateral relations at the expense of multilateral frameworks.

 

These shifts could lead to stringent trade conditions, impacting investment and political cooperation, bringing profound implications for countries like Thailand.

As tensions seem poised to escalate between the US and China, Phumtham noted that Thailand would face increased pressure to align with one of these global powers. However, he reiterated that Thailand has traditionally maintained a policy of balancing relations, aiming to remain amiable with all global players. "Our goal is for all m

major powers to exercise restraint and seek peaceful resolutions to conflicts," he said, reinforcing the nation's intent to navigate these turbulent waters without aligning too closely with any single global force.

 

Phumtham further suggested that despite ongoing geopolitical stressors, Thailand's central location in Southeast Asia presents a unique opportunity to capitalise on the shifting trade and investment landscape. With many international companies contemplating supply chain relocations, Thailand can gain a competitive edge by attracting foreign investments.

 

Highlighting the role of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean), Phumtham noted that fostering robust regional cooperation might mitigate the need for reliance on superpowers. By strengthening Asean, the region could collectively gain greater negotiating power, potentially averting more significant conflicts. "A fortified Asean stands stronger in negotiations. Acting alone, Thailand lacks leverage against major powers," he said.

 

Finally, Phumtham affirmed the Thai government’s dedication to economic transformation, underscoring their strategy to lure foreign investments and enhance targeted industries. This approach not only aims to bolster Thailand’s role regionally but also secure its economic future amidst changing global tides. By upholding a balanced and pragmatic foreign policy, Thailand seeks to navigate the challenges of a rapidly evolving international landscape, reported Bangkok Post.

 

-- 2025-03-06

 

 

[blaze master]

10 minutes ago, webfact said:

Phumtham Wechayachai addressed significant global challenges and stressed the importance of Thailand maintaining a neutral stance internationally.

 

This is simply not possible in the coming decades. 

[ozz1]

I think we all know who they will align themselves with better start learning mandarin

[JoePai]

a neutral stance internationally

 

Translate - bend over for China