The Prime Minister launched the Thailand–China Cooperation Expo 2026, declaring full support for innovation and technology industries from Chinese investors, and firmly stating he will not pay attention to critics who claim Thailand gains no benefits.
At 16:50 on 22 July 2026, at Challenger Hall 2, IMPACT Exhibition and Convention Center, Muang Thong Thani, Pak Kret District, Nonthaburi Province, Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, presided over the opening ceremony and delivered a keynote speech at the Thailand–China Cooperation Expo 2026. After the event, Lalida Pertwivatana, Deputy Government Spokesperson, revealed the key points of the speech as follows.
The Prime Minister thanked the Deputy Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Thailand for clarifying doubts about the appropriateness of singing "Tian Mi Mi." He also addressed the timing of the event, highlighting that the world is facing multiple challenges, causing countries to reassess strategies and define cooperation directions with friendly nations to maximize benefits for their countries and peoples. He emphasized that Thailand and China share a long-standing, strong relationship rooted in people-to-people ties, enabling stable, mutually beneficial cooperation.
The Prime Minister spoke about the Thailand-China relationship, marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties last year. However, the bond between the two countries spans thousands of years based on understanding, trust, and mutual support, evolving into a friendship passed down through generations and now ready to advance to deeper, new dimensions of cooperation.
. . . (This part is a fragment: 'Believe the song is appropriate for the occasion')
The Prime Minister said that earlier, the Deputy Ambassador taught him some Thai language. When he asked if the official title was Ambassador to Thailand, the Deputy Ambassador replied it should be Deputy Ambassador, indicating his strong Thai language skills. The Prime Minister hopes to learn some Chinese as well. Since his Chinese is not fluent, he had to sing a song. The Deputy Ambassador’s remarks to them likely helped dispel any doubts or concerns about whether singing "Tian Mi Mi" was appropriate for the occasion in China.
The Prime Minister stated that the Thailand–China Cooperation Expo 2026 is held at a crucial time as the relationship between China and Thailand is being reinforced to become stable and strong, fostering mutual support as one family amid global challenges. Countries must set directions for cooperation and attitudes towards friendships to maximize benefits for their nations and citizens.
He added that building a strong relationship between Thailand and China is not difficult given their long-standing, deep ties passed through generations, fostering good understanding and mutual aid. This foundation has allowed continuous elevation of their cooperation for shared benefit. Last year marked the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations, but that is a formal term; the relationship actually spans over 1,000 years. The Thai-Chinese relationship dates back so far that its exact start is unknown. Many here likely have Chinese ancestry and speak Chinese; the Prime Minister himself is of Chinese descent. He elaborated on various Chinese dialects and surnames, noting that ancestors may have been relatives before branching out and settling in Thailand, where they prospered under the monarchy, while never forgetting their roots.
. . . (This part is a fragment: 'Emphasizes the need to seek cooperation with China')
Prime Minister Anutin said that seeking cooperation with China is essential. The two countries are close and share history. China, as a large nation with a vast population, invests heavily in research and product development. Thailand must cooperate and seek economic partnerships with China inevitably. During his visit to China, he met leading companies that expressed confidence in Thailand and were willing to invest to create jobs, livelihoods, and a shared economy. Thailand is ready to make their investment worthwhile, allowing business expansion, employment of Thai workers, and increased sales. He urged people not to worry.
. . . (This part is a fragment: 'Responds to academics spreading misinformation')
The Prime Minister said that upon returning from China, some academics claimed that Chinese investors do not transfer technology and questioned where they would employ local workers. He countered that companies must hire Thai workers and engineers. Technology transfer is not simply reading books; it occurs through skill training, working together, meetings, planning, and strategic development. This is a form of technology transfer. Critics also claimed the supply chain is entirely Chinese. He explained this is a new business and innovation, requiring advanced technology and high-tech products to be produced in Thailand. Previously, attracting such investment required building confidence. Now that investors have arrived, critics say the supply chain uses mostly Chinese components, but Thai components exist as well. He urged not to misinform the Thai public. Even if initially supply chains rely heavily on China, over time, local supply chains will develop, ultimately benefiting Thailand the most. If investors did not come, critics would say Thailand lacks the ability to attract foreign investment anyway.
. . . (This part is a fragment: 'Declares he does not care about detractors')
Therefore, the government will not be concerned or distracted by such critics. The government is confident that if actions benefit Thai people, bring money into the country, produce goods domestically, and enable exports, profits—whether large or small—are a matter of operational efficiency. The government always welcomes foreign investment and cooperation. Good examples should be supported, studied, and adapted to Thailand, but not copied outright. Partnerships and trust must be built to enable genuine technology transfer to Thailand.
The Prime Minister affirmed that the government is fully prepared to support investment and trade partnerships. The Board of Investment (BOI) now offers Thailand FastPass, a one-stop contact point to avoid running around different departments and ministries as before. Anyone who tries to circumvent this will not succeed. He expressed no concerns about those obstructing government policies, stating such individuals will not be on the path to success. He urged trust, declaring that the time for those lacking awareness or concern for their salaries or others’ hardships has passed. This government will not allow such obstacles to hinder investments. Without the private sector, the government would face severe difficulties. Reducing investment or personnel costs is not an option; without investment, the government will soon lack funds to pay salaries.
The Prime Minister said everyone knows where government spending comes from. In this era, civil servants are not rulers but service providers and facilitators who coordinate all efforts for progress across sectors, not just business. This is the new value the government promotes, and he believes most civil servants now understand its importance. He thanked them. Despite economic volatility and energy uncertainties that affect everyone, problems are addressed swiftly. He trusts today’s event will mark the start of valuable new opportunities. For any issues, the government is ready to coordinate and resolve them. He emphasized, “We exist because of you; please remember this.”
. . . (This part is a fragment: 'Urges entrepreneurs to have confidence')
“Today, the head of government says that without entrepreneurs, without you, the government cannot exist. Please have confidence that we will fully support you within the legal framework. Do what is right, and we will remove all obstacles to make things as convenient as possible. There is nothing to worry about regarding security. Please plan as if the country is perfectly normal. Thailand cannot be invaded or threatened. We have informed all our allies that we mind our own business and will not tolerate threats. But if anyone threatens us, we cannot hold back. Therefore, everyone should coexist peacefully and later find ways to restore relations without interference or aggression.”
He expressed confidence that Thailand is well-prepared and capable of self-defense, safe from threats. Anyone planning business ventures should not worry about security. Thailand is very stable. For those living in Thailand, unless entering risky areas, safety is ensured. Police, district officers, and local authorities will provide protection. There will be no exploitation of foreigners or business operators. Everything will proceed smoothly. He assured that this can be done. Having been Prime Minister for 10 months and Minister of Interior for 3 years, he knows all the connections.”
The Prime Minister also highlighted Thailand’s potential to accommodate investment, especially in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), which has infrastructure ready for future industries. This can attract substantial investment, generate jobs, increase income, and support long-term economic growth. He affirmed the government will continue developing infrastructure and the investment ecosystem to welcome investors worldwide.
He further emphasized Thailand’s commitment to safety for the lives and property of citizens, investors, and foreigners residing or doing business in the country. Security agencies, local administration, and the Royal Thai Police will coordinate to enforce laws, maintain order, and fully facilitate business operators.
Following the speech, the Prime Minister activated the opening ceremony alongside the latest humanoid robot, toured booths from Chinese and Thai exhibitors at the event, tasted Pu’er Da Yi tea from Yunnan Province—known for its smooth, popular flavor—and experienced riding an unmanned passenger drone.
