Sihasak revealed that in talks with Wang Yi, they aimed to promote relations, trade, and investment, highlighting China as an important market aligned with Thailand's needs. They also plan to bring Myanmar back into the peace process and advance efforts to address PM2.5 pollution.
At 11:40 a.m. on 25 April 2026 at the Dusit Thani Krabi Beach Resort in Mueang Krabi District, Krabi Province, Mr. Sihasak Puangketkaew, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, spoke about Thailand's expectations following his meeting with Mr. Wang Yi, member of the Political Bureau and Director of the Central Foreign Affairs Commission Office of the Communist Party of China, and Foreign Minister of the People's Republic of China, on 24 April. He said the discussion covered various aspects, including bilateral relations and trade and investment, as China is Thailand's most important market and an increasing investor. Currently ranked second, China may soon become Thailand's top investor. Importantly, Chinese investments align with Thailand's needs, such as transitioning to a green economy, digital economy, electric vehicles, and clean energy.
Another key aspect is that China is an important regional partner with a significant role in security. Much of the discussion focused on Myanmar, as many Western countries call for democracy and reconciliation there, aligning with Thailand's goals. However, all parties in Myanmar must seek reconciliation. Thus, the purpose of the visits by Mr. Wang Yi and myself was to encourage Myanmar to engage in the peace and reconciliation process after elections. As a neighboring country, Thailand cannot avoid interaction with Myanmar's government. At the same time, border problems require urgent attention, such as border trade disruptions due to internal situations, online scams, transnational crime, drug trafficking, and pollution. Therefore, Thailand must cooperate with both the Myanmar government and local ethnic groups.
Regarding the trilateral cooperation framework to address PM2.5 pollution among Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos, Mr. Sihasak said he wants this cooperation to become stronger, as it is important not only bilaterally but also as a demonstration of the region's role. He told Mr. Wang Yi that although Thailand's politics have been unstable in the past, he believes the current government has the stability to pursue proactive policies, especially in foreign affairs, which have long been absent from the radar, aiming to restore influence and benefit.