In a significant diplomatic engagement, Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra held a telephone conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron on June 27.

This discussion marked the first official exchange between the two leaders since Paetongtarn assumed office.

During the call, both leaders expressed satisfaction with their dialogue and emphasized their commitment to enhancing Thai-French relations towards establishing a strategic partnership.

Prime Minister Paetongtarn highlighted the upcoming opportunity for President Macron to visit Thailand, coinciding with the summit of the International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF) in Cambodia next year.

In reciprocation, President Macron extended an invitation for Paetongtarn to visit France for the Paris Peace Forum.

The leaders underscored the necessity of heightened cooperation in light of current political and economic uncertainties globally, demonstrating mutual confidence in their partnership based on adherence to international regulations.

France aims to strengthen its collaboration with Thailand, particularly in the fields of security and space technology.

They also shared views on the dynamics of global geopolitical and economic competition.

Thailand reiterated its commitment to maintaining a balanced approach among major powers and emphasized support for a world order grounded in international law.

In discussions concerning Thailand’s aspirations to join the OECD, the Prime Minister expressed appreciation to France for its support and anticipated ongoing assistance regarding the ongoing Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations with the European Union (EU).

France reaffirmed its backing for Thailand's efforts in this domain, hoping for a smooth progression towards OECD accession.

Addressing the ASEAN context, Prime Minister Paetongtarn emphasized ASEAN's centrality in combating transnational crime, including call centre scams and cybercrime.

She noted Thailand's proactive measures and its willingness to work closely with neighboring countries and international partners, including France, in these areas.

On the topic of the Thai-Cambodian border situation, the Prime Minister reiterated Thailand’s commitment to a peaceful resolution, emphasizing the importance of bilateral negotiations.

She expressed confidence in the Thailand-Cambodia Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) and its recent meeting in Phnom Penh, seeking France's role as a supportive partner in fostering a conducive environment for continued discussions between Thailand and Cambodia.

President Macron acknowledged Thailand's intentions and expressed willingness to explore cooperative measures with Cambodia.

The conversation also covered the situations in the Middle East and Myanmar, where Prime Minister Paetongtarn reiterated Thailand’s advocacy for a ceasefire and the cessation of violence from involved parties.

Regarding Myanmar, she highlighted Thailand's readiness to support the peace process and Malaysia's role as ASEAN Chair, advocating for inclusive dialogue and engagement.

She asserted that lasting peace must be led by the people of Myanmar, urging consideration of all paths to peace.