BANGKOK, Thailand – Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Phumtham Wechayachai met with H.E. Ms. Ping Kitnikone, the Canadian Ambassador to Thailand, at Government House to discuss Thai-Canadian relations and cooperation.
The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized the longstanding ties between Thailand and Canada, which have endured for over 64 years, and praised the continuous development of their bilateral relationship. Both nations’ leaders previously engaged in discussions during the ASEAN Summit in Vientiane in October 2024.
Ambassador Kitnikone expressed appreciation for the close collaboration between Thailand and Canada and reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to strengthening cooperation in various fields, including security, transnational crime prevention, and economic ties. She highlighted Canada’s support for the Indo-Pacific framework to address evolving global challenges.
Regarding security and defense, Phumtham thanked Canada for its English language training programs for Thai military personnel and its involvement in cybersecurity cooperation. The Ambassador reiterated Canada’s willingness to support security collaboration, emphasizing that stability contributes to economic growth and overall well-being.
The Ambassador also commended Thailand’s efforts in promoting gender equality and the recent enforcement of the marriage equality law. She acknowledged Thailand as one of the few Asian nations to legalize same-sex marriage. In response, Phumtham highlighted Thailand’s commitment to advancing women’s roles in peace and security, citing the deployment of female peacekeepers to missions in South Sudan, India, Pakistan, and the UN headquarters in New York.
On the defense industry, Phumtham recognized Canada’s expertise and invited Canadian defense companies to participate in Defense & Security 2025, scheduled for November. The Ambassador mentioned Canada’s capabilities in integrated air defense systems and helicopters, suggesting potential collaboration in these areas. She affirmed that Canada would consider involving its defense industry in the upcoming event.
Regarding the Indo-Pacific region, Phumtham welcomed Canada’s active role in regional peace and security. He reaffirmed Thailand’s commitment to working with Canada in alignment with the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) to address emerging regional challenges together. (PRD)
