Singapore has expressed interest in joining the Land Bridge project. Ratchada proudly stated that it is a project creating regional opportunities and assured there is no way the government would approve a project based on empty proposals.
At 10:00 a.m. on 27 April 2026 at the Thai Kufa Building, Government House, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul welcomed H.E. Mr. Chan Chun Sing, Minister for Public Service and Defence of the Republic of Singapore, who paid a courtesy visit. Ratchada Thanadirek, the spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, summarized the discussion, saying Anutin expressed gratitude to Singapore's Prime Minister Lawrence Wong for congratulating him by phone upon assuming office. They also discussed enhancing cooperation between Thailand and Singapore at both bilateral and regional levels, with both sides recognizing considerable potential to further develop their partnership.
Chan conveyed best wishes from Lawrence, with Singapore hoping to officially welcome Anutin on a suitable future visit. Both parties discussed key areas of their relationship and collaboration, including defense, with regular high-level visits and annual joint exercises such as Cobra Gold; energy, agreeing on opportunities to expand cooperation; aviation industry; food security; and the Land Bridge project. Singapore showed interest in Thailand's Land Bridge, viewing it as a transport link between the two seas that reduces risk and enhances the country's logistics capacity. It is also seen as an opportunity to develop various industries, fostering new economic growth, supporting security, and strengthening regional potential. Anutin expressed readiness to support Singapore and emphasized that the project requires substantial investment and cooperation across public and private sectors, as well as international partners, to be efficiently and sustainably implemented.
Ratchada proudly highlights the project as an opportunity.
At 11:00 a.m., Ratchada added in an interview that the discussion atmosphere was cordial due to the close ties between Thailand and Singapore, especially between their leaders. Regarding the Land Bridge project, Chan expressed interest because it represents an economic opportunity. If clarity is achieved and the project can be advanced, investors from Singapore and other countries will join in its development. When asked whether Singapore would support investors or in what capacity, Ratchada said detailed discussions have not yet occurred, but Singapore recognizes the project's appeal and the opportunity it presents for Thailand and the region. Asked if Singapore is ready to cooperate with Thailand to push the project forward, she replied that details are pending, but Singapore's minister is monitoring the project, as it requires government-level clarity before investment discussions progress.
Assurance of full transparency.
When asked about opposition criticism that the government has not yet presented cost-benefit figures but is pushing the project, Ratchada said the initiative has been pursued for several years. Large projects must undergo economic feasibility and environmental impact analyses, all of which must be complete before submission to the Cabinet. She assured that the government would never approve a project based on empty proposals. There is no cause for concern; everything is transparent. She emphasized that the project involves private sector investment. Regarding how public understanding will be fostered in areas facing opposition, Ratchada said that for any large project, understanding must be built with the public. All concerns must be heard, and communication will continue. The Prime Minister stressed the importance of empathy and clear communication about the project's purpose and actions. When asked if she is confident the project will succeed and materialize, Ratchada said it reflects the government's good intentions for the people's benefit and hopes citizens will see the economic opportunities.
A plea not to disparage the country.
Asked whether many countries, including China and Singapore, are interested in Thailand and if there are others, Ratchada requested that people not undervalue Thailand's potential by claiming some countries are uninterested, which is untrue. Thailand has financial credibility; over the past two years, it has ranked among countries attractive to investors. Thailand does not lack oil but faces global price challenges. There are many aspects of security and appeal unique to Thailand. She questioned why some groups choose to undermine the country's credibility. She warned that political figures speaking in ways that suggest Thailand is unreliable benefit no one, especially as foreign observers listen. Therefore, she urged that criticism focus appropriately on government policies and concerns, and that critiques be constructive. Claims that Thailand lacks capability do not reflect the country's reality.