Thailand Helps Thailand Phase 2: Anutin emphasizes the need to maintain balance for economic progress and reduced public expenses, denying US pressure on Thailand to choose sides. Recently, the Prime Minister and his wife led a delegation to Australia.
At 08:30 on 17 August 2026, at Military Airport 2, Wing 6 (Wing 6), Don Mueang. Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul. gave an interview on the progress of the project. “Thailand Helps Thailand Plus Phase 2.” Asked about its prospects, he said, "We must always maintain balance. The economy must keep moving, people must reduce expenses, and the government must manage the budget effectively." "There are many components that must come together. The government’s duty is to fully care for the welfare of the people, but the form of support must not be welfare state or populism; it must be a cooperative effort at the right time."
When asked if Thailand Helps Thailand Plus Phase 2 is necessary, Anutin said, "Anything that improves people's quality of life must be considered daily. It’s not just about this one issue." When asked if the treasury still has funds to support this, Anutin replied, "So far, we have never run out."
He then commented on reports that the US plans to send warning letters to over 35 allied and trading countries to choose sides in the AI technology competition between the US and China. The Prime Minister said Thailand has maintained neutrality and this should not affect tax negotiations. He added there are conditions and details at the negotiation table, questioning what "choosing sides" really means and to what extent.
He noted that last week, the US Deputy Defense Secretary visited Government House and confirmed that security cooperation, Cobra Gold exercises, and military support are separate from trade negotiations. Both sides confirmed this. When asked if the frequent visits by the US Deputy Defense Secretary imply pressure on Thailand, Anutin replied, "Not at all. There’s no pressure. The atmosphere is one of mutual respect and cooperation. Why say it’s pressure? They come to meet and talk. We even address each other by first names. I call him ‘Minister,’ and he calls me ‘Mr. Prime Minister,’ then I said ‘call me Noo.’"
At 09:00, Anutin, accompanied by his wife Thannont Charnvirakul, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Akniti Nitithanprapas, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sihasak Puangketkaew, Labor Minister Julphun Amornwiwat, Culture Minister Sabida Thaiset, Deputy Agriculture Minister Piyarat Tiyapairat, Prime Minister's Secretary-General Traisuli Traisoranakul, and BOI Secretary-General Narit Therdsteerasak departed from Wing 6 Airport, Don Mueang to Sydney, Australia, for an official visit from 17–20 August 2026. Afterwards, they will proceed to Auckland, New Zealand, for an official visit from 20–22 August 2026. Anutin is scheduled to arrive at Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport around 21:05 local time, which is 3 hours ahead of Thailand.
Reporters added that this visit to Australia is at the invitation of the Honourable Anthony Albanese, Prime Minister of Australia. The agenda includes official discussions and meetings with leading Australian companies.
