The Prime Minister joined hands with the Vietnamese President to open the Thailand–Viet Nam Business Forum, uniting the private sectors to advance a comprehensive strategic partnership and emphasizing that the Thai and Vietnamese economies must "grow together."
On 28 May 2026 at 14:00 in the Ballroom on the 4th floor of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Bangkok, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul, along with Mr. To Lam, General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam and President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, co-chaired and delivered opening remarks at the Thailand–Viet Nam Business Forum 2026 under the theme “Growing Together: Celebrating 50 Years of Thailand–Viet Nam Relations.”
Ms. Ratchada Thanadirek, spokesperson for the Office of the Prime Minister, revealed the key points as follows.
The Prime Minister expressed gratitude to Mr. To Lam for honoring the opening ceremony, as well as to the Thai-Vietnam Friendship Association and the private sectors of both countries, who play a vital role in continuously driving the Thai–Vietnamese economy. He noted that this event is especially meaningful as it marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and Vietnam. Over the years, their relationship has evolved from "friendship" to a "strategic partnership" that is crucial for the future of both countries.
The Prime Minister stated that the world currently faces many challenges, particularly for Thailand and Vietnam, two countries with significant potential, as well as for ASEAN, which is emerging as one of the most promising regions. He referred to discussions at the ASEAN Summit under the theme "Navigating our future, together," highlighting the importance of collaboration in energy and food security, addressing conflict impacts, supply chain connectivity, and preparing for new economic opportunities.
He emphasized that Thailand and Vietnam are two key economies within ASEAN. Currently, Thailand is Vietnam’s top trading partner within ASEAN, while Vietnam ranks second among Thailand’s ASEAN partners. Bilateral trade approaches nearly 24 billion US dollars, nearing the 25 billion target. Importantly, the focus is not just on trade figures but on the complementary economic structures that reflect a relationship based not on competition but on mutual growth. He reiterated, "When Vietnam grows, Thailand grows."
At present, both Thailand and Vietnam are accelerating the creation of “New Engines of Growth” through digital economy, AI, semiconductors, electric vehicles, green industries, future foods, clean energy, and health economy. He expressed confidence that if both countries can link their strengths, Thailand and Vietnam will become not only regional "production bases" but strategic partners driving ASEAN’s future economy.
The Prime Minister also said that earlier this morning, he and Mr. To Lam witnessed the signing of the "Action Plan to Advance the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between Thailand and Vietnam," centered on the "Three Connects" concept: connecting supply chains, local economies, and sustainable development strategies. This aims to enhance competitiveness, distribute economic benefits, and build a sustainable shared future.
He underscored that the key factor shaping the future Thai–Vietnam relationship is the private sector, which will play a major role in investment, innovation development, and employment. He affirmed that Thailand welcomes investment, has a stable government, is improving regulations, and has the potential to be a regional logistics hub.
In closing, the Prime Minister thanked Mr. To Lam for choosing Thailand as the first country to visit after taking office, which is a great honor for the Thai government. On this occasion, Mr. To Lam is also the first foreign guest of the government, reflecting the friendship, trust, and close ties between the two nations. The Prime Minister expressed confidence that this meeting will lead to cooperation, investment, and new opportunities for both countries, reaffirming that Thailand and Vietnam can move forward, grow together, and jointly build a stable, prosperous, and sustainable future.
The Vietnamese President expressed his pleasure at visiting Thailand and confirmed his support and promotion of investment between Thailand and Vietnam across all sectors, including semiconductors, advanced technology, and the future economy, to jointly drive the bilateral trade goals toward concrete and swift achievement.
