Hanoi (VNA) – On the sidelines of the ongoing ASEAN Summit in Laos, Thailand’s new Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra held key meetings on October 10 with leaders from the Republic of Korea (RoK) and China, focusing on enhancing bilateral relations.
During her meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening traditional friendship, enhancing strategic communication, and promoting deeper cooperation.
They also discussed the upcoming 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, with both countries working towards building a stronger China-Thailand community of shared destiny.
Meanwhile Prime Minister Paetongtarn and Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol agreed to expedite negotiations on a bilateral trade agreement.
According to the RoK's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, President Yoon expressed his hope for increased economic collaboration, particularly in electric vehicles and the defence industry.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn also committed to advancing the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) talks and assured support for the RoK’s companies, especially in the electric vehicle and cultural sectors.
Additionally, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken also met with Prime Minister Paetongtarn and expressed his hope for enhanced cooperation with the new Thai administration. The meeting took place as Secretary Blinken represented the US at the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits.
These meetings underscore Thailand's focus on strengthening ties with major global partners under its new leadership, setting the stage for future economic and diplomatic cooperation./.
