On October 11, 2024, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra held a bilateral meeting with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, expressing gratitude for Australia’s care of over 100,000 Thai citizens, including more than 25,000 Thai students. Paetongtarn highlighted Thailand’s commitment to supporting education at all levels.
The Australian Prime Minister praised Thailand’s ‘Moo Deng’, the pygmy hippo at Khao Kheow Open Zoon, acknowledging its contribution to promoting Thai tourism. He also commended Thailand’s progressive Equal Marriage Law, noting its significance in promoting inclusivity in the region.
Jirayu Huangsap, spokesperson for the Prime Minister’s Office, stated that the two leaders discussed enhancing economic cooperation. Paetongtarn emphasized Thailand’s goal to create equal economic opportunities, aligning with Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy 2040. They also discussed boosting trade, investment, and tackling transnational crime, especially in drug control and human security.
Both countries expressed interest in sharing knowledge and expertise in agricultural technology, food innovation, alternative foods, and halal products to expand into new markets. Paetongtarn also thanked Australia for supporting Thailand’s bid for OECD membership and wished Albanese success in the upcoming general election. (PRD)
