Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has concluded his participation in the Asean Summit in the Philippines, underscoring Thailand’s proactive role in promoting regional peace, stability and cooperation amid global uncertainty.
Government spokeswoman Rachada Dhnadirek said on Saturday that the summit yielded tangible outcomes for Thailand and reflected an active foreign policy at a time when conflicts in several regions are affecting the global economy, as well as energy and food security.
Mr Anutin departed Cebu island, the summit location, on Saturday after attending the May 7-9 summit and related meetings.
On Thursday, he spoke with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet at a meeting brokered by Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr, as the Asean chair, to discuss restoring Thai-Cambodian relations after months of mistrust and two rounds of deadly armed conflict last year.
Thailand adopted a constructive, forward-looking approach, with the prime minister calling for a “new chapter” in bilateral ties based on sincerity, trust and cooperation, Ms Rachada said.
Both sides agreed to assign their foreign ministers to develop practical confidence-building measures. Thai officials stressed the talks did not involve border demarcation or reopening crossings.
At the plenary session on Friday, Mr Anutin called for stronger cooperation on energy and food security. He backed advancing the Asean Power Grid, strengthening petroleum security and boosting investment in renewables.
Thailand also offered to build on its role as a major food producer to support regional food security. The premier also highlighted the need to protect Asean citizens during crises, citing Thailand’s evacuation of nationals from conflict areas in the Middle East.
Asean leaders endorsed the “Cebu Protocol” to facilitate Timor-Leste’s accession and adopted statements on maritime cooperation, disaster management, the Middle East and youth engagement on climate change.
