The Prime Minister revealed the results of his visit to Vietnam for the ASEAN Future Forum 2026, emphasizing success in every aspect. He stressed that Vietnam is not viewed as an economic rival and clarified that his handshake with Hun Manet was simply a courteous greeting among ASEAN leaders, without any special meetings or discussions on UNCLOS.
On 9 June 2026 at 21:00, Anutin Charnvirakul, the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, spoke about the success of the ASEAN Future Forum 2026 (AFF). He said the trip to Vietnam was to attend the AFF, discussing the future of ASEAN countries, as part of the ASEAN Community meetings. During the official visit, he met leaders from several countries and was invited as the head of the Thai government to Vietnam. High-level meetings took place with prime ministers and ministers focusing on opportunities and cooperation in economic, security, trade, technology, and investment areas. The trip was very successful and met all objectives. Thai private sector investors in Vietnam, with investments totaling around 15 billion US dollars (more than 500 billion baht), were present. Vietnam expressed the desire for the Thai government to help facilitate negotiations to make business operations smoother and more efficient, generating income and employment. The Thai government plans to raise this matter in official talks. The Prime Minister also noted that Vietnam's economy has grown significantly over the past 20 to 30 years, matching Thailand's investment of 15 billion dollars. He urged Vietnam to consider increasing its investment in Thailand. Furthermore, he emphasized that both countries should abandon the idea of economic or trade rivalry and instead pursue a strategic trade partnership, strengthening ties to secure their positions on the international stage. Given their economic size and manufacturing bases—including industry and food production—they have a promising future together.
When asked about the handshake with Hun Manet, Cambodia's Prime Minister, during the ASEAN leaders' meeting, the Prime Minister explained that the ASEAN summit involves leaders gathering in a holding room to wait before stepping onto the stage together. Those who arrive first sit down, and as leaders of their countries, they greet each other as a matter of proper etiquette and mutual respect for sovereignty. There was nothing beyond this gesture. He confirmed that there were no discussions or meetings on any issues during this event, either formally or informally.
When asked whether there was any discussion on UNCLOS (the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea), the Prime Minister stated there was none. Everything is proceeding according to established procedures, and currently, no actions are being taken. Negotiations within other frameworks such as the GBC and JBC have been suspended. He acknowledged that there are differing views on the matter.
The Prime Minister also addressed reports from Cambodian media that Hun Sen had demanded the return of certain territory, stating that he has already given his interview on this issue.