Anutin: Thailand won’t choose sides amid global rivalry

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul of Thailand emphasized that the nation would not align itself with any particular global power as the international landscape undergoes significant shifts. Speaking at the Lowy Institute in Sydney, Anutin stressed the importance of strategic autonomy, diverse partnerships, and regional cooperation to navigate the complexities of a changing world order.

He argued that "not choosing sides does not mean having no choices," as it means maintaining the ability to make independent decisions and engage with various partners based on national interests.

Anutin highlighted the significance of ASEAN as Thailand's strategic anchor, noting that regional institutions would become increasingly vital as global consensus becomes more challenging to achieve. He urged ASEAN to strengthen its unity and capacity to set its own agenda while responding effectively to regional challenges. On the issue of Myanmar, Thailand continues to support ASEAN's Five-Point Consensus and works towards calibrated re-engagement to facilitate dialogue and progress.

Regarding Cambodia, Thailand remains committed to resolving disputes peacefully through dialogue and bilateral mechanisms while maintaining unity within ASEAN. Anutin also pointed out that Thailand and Australia, as middle powers, could play a more substantial role in shaping the regional balance of power by focusing on specific issues, such as combating cybercrime and transnational crime.

In terms of economic cooperation, Anutin called for deeper integration between Thailand and Australia to enhance resilience and reduce dependency on any single market or supply source. Both countries have enjoyed a free trade agreement since 2005, with bilateral trade reaching approximately A$32 billion in 2025. Anutin suggested that potential areas for cooperation include critical minerals, batteries, clean energy, advanced manufacturing, food security, agricultural technology, digital trade, cybersecurity, and responsible artificial intelligence.

Lastly, Anutin expressed gratitude to Australia for its support in Thailand's bid to join the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), emphasizing that the process would help elevate Thailand's regulatory standards and foster innovation-driven growth. He concluded by emphasizing that while Thailand and Australia may not determine the global power balance, their collective efforts can contribute to shaping regional power dynamics and promoting long-term prosperity.