“Sihasak” explains that the Prime Minister’s overseas trip is to protect national interests and to demonstrate Thailand’s position at the forefront of the global stage.
At 09:45 on 28 Oct 2026 at the Government House, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sihasak Puangketkaew addressed criticism regarding Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s upcoming foreign visits in November. He emphasized that the Prime Minister’s attendance at these meetings is crucial. The upcoming ASEAN summit includes not only ASEAN leaders but also negotiation partners such as U.S. President Donald Trump. Meanwhile, the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit will be broader, focusing on the region’s economy. This participation is necessary as Thailand must play a role in these forums, which are vital to the country’s interests. It is important to reflect that Thailand is not in the middle ranks but at the forefront. The global situation and vision have set times, and every leader must attend.
When asked if there have been instances in the past where the Prime Minister or leaders did not attend, Sihasak stated that a leader would only miss such events if a genuine crisis occurs. Attending these meetings is about protecting and promoting Thailand’s interests.