Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has instructed relevant ministries to expedite the high-speed rail project, as China prioritizes its completion to reduce transportation costs. Additionally, a task force has been urged to fast-track the feasibility study for the Land Bridge project.
Speaking on a special episode of Thailand’s Opportunity with Prime Minister Paetongtarn on February 16, 2025, the Prime Minister reflected on her official visit to China, which marked the 50th anniversary of Thai-Chinese diplomatic relations. The program aired nationwide on the National Broadcasting Services of Thailand and Public Relations Department radio networks.
During her visit from February 5-8, 2025, she engaged in high-level discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping, National People’s Congress Chairman Zhao Leji, and Premier Li Qiang. This rare opportunity to meet all three leaders underscores China’s strong commitment to its partnership with Thailand.
Key discussions included the potential transfer of two giant pandas to Thailand and strategies to boost Chinese tourism. The Prime Minister reassured visitors of their safety, highlighting stricter enforcement against cybercrime and enhanced collaboration on “soft power” initiatives.
Regarding infrastructure development, she emphasized the ongoing construction of Phases 1 and 2 of Thailand’s high-speed rail system. Once completed, this network will enhance regional connectivity between China, Laos, and Thailand, facilitating more efficient logistics, lowering transportation costs, and creating opportunities for Thai SMEs and farmers. Given China’s strong interest in the project, Thailand has been urged to accelerate its implementation.
Similarly, China has expressed keen interest in Thailand’s Land Bridge project, which aims to develop deep-sea ports in Chumphon and Ranong and establish a direct transport corridor between them. Recognizing the project’s potential economic and logistical benefits, China has requested a feasibility study. In response, the Thai government has directed a research team to provide further details and explore potential Chinese investment.
“The Land Bridge will shorten export transit times by four days, reduce business costs by 15%, and lower fuel consumption, ultimately making products more affordable for consumers. Additionally, it aligns with Thailand’s green energy initiatives, promoting sustainability while positioning the country as a key logistics hub that generates employment and enhances trade opportunities,” Prime Minister Paetongtarn stated.
On trade and investment, the Prime Minister invited Xiaomi to establish an electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing plant in Thailand, citing the country’s strategic role in ASEAN and its attractiveness as a foreign investment destination.
The visit also facilitated discussions on cybersecurity and transnational crime. The Chinese President commended Thailand’s crackdown on call-center scams and agreed to establish two joint task forces to strengthen cybercrime prevention.
“China is willing to provide further support but has requested two dedicated teams for swift action. Our foreign minister will oversee their collaboration to ensure immediate and effective resolutions,” Paetongtarn noted.
The Prime Minister concluded by emphasizing the visit’s tangible benefits for Thailand, particularly in security and crime prevention. The strengthened bilateral cooperation is expected to lead to a significant reduction in transnational criminal activities.
During the trip, Thailand and China signed 14 Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs), attracting considerable attention from Chinese media. These agreements cover data-sharing, cybersecurity measures against online scams, and joint development initiatives, with further collaboration opportunities on the horizon.
Additionally, the Prime Minister attended the opening ceremony of the 9th Asian Winter Games, where she cheered for Thai athletes and congratulated Paul Henri Vieuxtemps on securing Thailand’s first bronze medal in Freestyle Skiing.
Source: The Nation
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