Thailand reaffirms one-China policy after Taiwan rebuke

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has reaffirmed that Thailand remains firmly committed to the one-China policy, following Taiwan's expression of disappointment over remarks made during his visit to China.

Speaking at Government House at 11.40am on 23 July 2026, Anutin, who is also Interior Minister, said Thailand's position was long-established and would not affect its cooperation with Taiwan.

The Taiwanese Foreign Ministry had objected after Anutin agreed to wording during his China trip that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China.

Thailand says its policy is unchanged

Anutin said Thailand had supported the one-China policy "all along" and that there was nothing new in its stance.

"Various forms of cooperation do not conflict with the policy. We have not blocked anything at all, because for Thailand it is the one-China policy," he said.

Asked about Taiwan's statement expressing disappointment with Thailand, Anutin said this was Taiwan's position and that Bangkok had acknowledged it. He again stressed that Thailand's policy was clear and said he did not believe the matter would have an impact.

When asked whether further diplomatic measures were needed to ensure mutual understanding, he replied that the two sides already understood each other.

Asked whether Taiwan might regard Thailand as leaning towards China, Anutin smiled before saying: "Our policy is one China. There is no leaning."

He declined to comment on discussion circulating on social media.

Concerns over Thai workers and visa-free travel

Reporters also asked whether the row could affect Thai workers in Taiwan or lead to the cancellation of visa-free travel arrangements. Anutin again responded that Thailand's policy was clear.

He gave the same answer when asked whether the government would need to send a formal letter explaining Thailand's position.

No change to travel rules, work arrangements or cooperation between Thailand and Taiwan was announced in the Prime Minister's remarks.

A sensitive diplomatic balance

Thailand maintains official diplomatic relations with Beijing under its one-China policy, while also having economic and other forms of cooperation with Taiwan.

Anutin's comments indicate that Bangkok intends to continue those links without departing from its established diplomatic position on China and Taiwan.

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24 July 2026

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