Superpower contestations force Thailand stance
Thailand will not take sides in the ongoing global contestation between the United States and China, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow told Euronews.
The veteran diplomat with over 40 years of foreign ministry service outlined the nation’s foreign policy during an interview for Euronews’ new World Conversation global programme. As the rules-based international order breaks down, nations cannot go it alone and must restore multilateralism, Sihasak stated.
“We ask our friends not to force us to take sides,” Sihasak told Euronews, adding that not taking sides does not mean being neutral. Sometimes neutrality does not serve national interests, according to the foreign minister.
Balancing Washington and Beijing
The main global contestation sits between two superpowers who both count as friends of Thailand, Sihasak explained from Bangkok. The nation secures a balanced approach through targeted economic and security cooperation with both capitals.
Chinese investment in electric vehicles anchors economic ties, while the United States maintains a vital role in regional security. Thailand operates as a geopolitically safe zone within a regional market of 700 million people, keeping peace and stability as its primary strategic objective.
Regional alliances support Southeast Asian stability
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations alliance is essential for pan-Asian stability, Sihasak emphasized. Thailand stands ready to rebuild formal ties with Cambodia.
The deputy minister also defended a gradual return to regional talks involving Myanmar. Diplomatic engagement across Southeast Asia supports the broader goal of maintaining stability without yielding to superpower pressures.
Questions about Thailand's stance on superpower competition
What did Thailand’s foreign minister say about superpower competition?
Sihasak said that Thailand asks both the United States and China not to force the nation to take sides. He said that avoiding sides does not equal strict neutrality, which often fails to serve national interests.
How does Thailand manage relations with the US and China?
The country balances ties by welcoming Chinese electric vehicle investments while working with the United States on regional security. This dual approach operates within a 700-millon-person market defined as a geopolitically safe zone.
What is Thailand’s position on regional diplomacy?
Bangkok emphasizes the central role of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations for pan-Asian stability. The government also prepares to rebuild ties with Cambodia and supports a gradual return to regional talks with Myanmar.
Did you know?
Sihasak Phuangketkeow brings over 40 years of foreign ministry service to his diplomatic role in Bangkok.
Keep reading