The Prime Minister traveled to the Philippines for the ASEAN summit, hoping to benefit Thailand. He reassured that there is no need to worry about meeting the Cambodian leader, as he knows what must be done.
At 10:30 a.m. on 7 May 2026, at Military Airport 2, Wing 6, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul departed for Cebu City, Republic of the Philippines, to attend the 48th ASEAN Summit from 7 to 9 May 2026 in Cebu City, Republic of the Philippines. Joining him were Energy Minister Eknat Promphan, Prime Minister’s Secretary-General Traisulee Traisoranakul, and Government Spokesperson Ratchada Thanadirek. Before departure, Anutin expressed his expectations for the ASEAN summit, saying he hoped for positive outcomes on all matters. He said that upon attending, the goal is to do what benefits Thailand. When asked how he planned to use the ASEAN platform to benefit Thailand, Anutin smiled and replied, “I’ll just print it out and hand it over. Certainly, this is not a trip for leisure or to catch up with leaders out of personal affection. It is for work, negotiation, and stating Thailand’s position, so the ASEAN community understands Thailand’s policies and planned actions.”
He assured there is no need to worry as he knows what actions to take.
When asked if he expected to meet Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet during the summit, the Prime Minister said they will inevitably meet, but perhaps not in a bilateral one-on-one discussion. The Philippines, as host, may arrange group sessions to facilitate dialogue, aiming to maintain a positive atmosphere at the ASEAN meetings. He emphasized there is no cause for concern, stating he has managed Thailand-Cambodia relations since becoming Prime Minister and even earlier as Minister of Interior. He understands fully that all discussions must be principled, beneficial, and protect Thailand’s sovereignty and the interests of its people. Therefore, there is no need to worry about this matter.