Prime Minister Anutin concluded his visit to New Zealand, meeting with the Thai community in Auckland, highlighting economic growth and strong international relations. He lamented the strict Kiwi security that caused the cancellation of a meeting at a Thai temple, introduced Chulapan, noting that all parties are working together with stability, and revealed good news that Thai Airways is preparing to resume direct flights between Bangkok and Auckland.
On 22 August 2026 in Auckland, New Zealand, reporters covered the final day of Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s official visit to New Zealand. At 08:50 local time (five hours ahead of Thailand, equivalent to 03:50 Thai time), the Prime Minister opened Harbour Room 1 on the second floor of Park Hyatt Auckland Hotel to host a breakfast and meet with over 100 representatives of the Thai community residing in Auckland. The atmosphere was warm and friendly.
The Prime Minister addressed several key points, including explaining the sudden venue change, apologizing to the Thai community for having to change the meeting place abruptly. Originally, he intended to visit a temple and meet the Thai community there—a familiar and more casual setting. He said he had negotiated extensively with New Zealand authorities but was denied permission because the temple visit was not part of the official itinerary and there were security concerns. He humorously added, "Trying to sneak out was difficult because there were three guards outside the room and one inside." Consequently, he decided to resolve the issue by inviting all Thai community members to meet at the hotel instead, where breakfast was fully arranged.
Next, the Prime Minister introduced the senior delegation members and ministers accompanying him on the mission to demonstrate the integrated cooperation of the government. During the introductions, Chulapan Amornwiwat, Minister of Labor and leader of the Pheu Thai Party, was mentioned. The Prime Minister said that although it is a coalition government, all parties join hands to work with stability and share a common goal for the country.
The Prime Minister then summarized the overall success of this mission, stating that the delegation started in Sydney before traveling to Canberra, Australia, where they visited a Thai temple and met the community there. They also met with the state governor and the Australian Prime Minister. Overall, relations between Thailand, Australia, and New Zealand are very positive. Strategies and memoranda of understanding (MOUs) were signed to elevate the partnership to a sustainable strategic level, covering trade, economy, culture, technology, and investment. The agreements will fully utilize the Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
The Prime Minister further stated that on the security front, the situation along Thailand’s borders with neighboring countries—including Cambodia, Sa Kaeo, Prachinburi, Buriram, Surin, Ubon Ratchathani, Chanthaburi, and Trat—is peaceful with no military clashes. Regarding the maritime overlapping area dispute with Cambodia, the government has adopted a "hold off" policy to delay negotiations to avoid conflict and focus on peaceful coexistence.
On the issue of unrest in Myanmar, the government reaffirmed that it does not support ethnic minorities using weapons or border areas to impact Thailand. Thailand is working closely with ASEAN to resolve related problems such as drug trafficking, call center gangs, and managing natural gas energy to protect national interests.
The Prime Minister also highlighted positive economic indicators to emphasize government stability. Currently, investment promotion applications through the Board of Investment (BOI) have nearly doubled, while exports have grown by 20%. This is accompanied by a stable baht, a strong stock market, and excellent national creditworthiness.
In closing, the Prime Minister praised all overseas Thais, regardless of occupation—be they Thai restaurant owners or chefs—describing them as ambassadors or cultural envoys who help build Thailand’s reputation, foster trust, and attract foreigners’ interest in the country. He affirmed that the government is ready to support and listen to all issues fully and asked everyone to await good news soon regarding Thai Airways’ plan to resume direct flights between Bangkok and Auckland.
