New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s visit to Thailand signals a renewed commitment to strengthening economic and diplomatic ties between the two nations. Luxon, who arrived in Bangkok on Tuesday, met with Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin to discuss various areas of cooperation, including trade, education, investment, tourism, and cybersecurity.
During a joint news conference, Prime Minister Srettha announced plans to elevate Thailand-New Zealand relations to a strategic partnership by 2026 or sooner, coinciding with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. The move aims to further expand and deepen cooperation across all dimensions.
Luxon highlighted the significant growth in trade between Thailand and New Zealand since the signing of a free trade agreement 20 years ago. Emphasizing the commitment to further enhance economic cooperation, Luxon announced an ambitious goal to triple two-way trade by 2045.
Both leaders expressed optimism about the future of bilateral economic relations, with discussions centered on facilitating tariff-free entry for imports, enhancing visa facilitation, and resuming direct flights between the two countries, which were disrupted due to the pandemic.
The meeting also saw the signing of agreements aimed at increasing cooperation in education and aviation supply, repair, and maintenance.
In addition to economic matters, the leaders discussed the situation in neighboring Myanmar, with Thailand closely monitoring developments along its northwestern border following recent unrest in the key town of Myawaddy.
