Thailand and South Africa Forge Stronger Ties

Thailand and South Africa Forge Stronger Ties - Thailand National Day 2023

Ambassador Mungkorn Pratoomkaew addressing guests at the celebration of Thailand's National Day on 5 December 2023

18 December 2023

Celebrating the National Day of the Kingdom of Thailand and honoring the Birthday Anniversary of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great on 5 December, Ambassador Mungkorn Pratoomkaew reflected on the enduring relationship between Thailand and South Africa at an event in Pretoria.

Highlighting King Bhumibol Adulyadej's legacy, the Ambassador emphasized the monarch's 70-year reign dedicated to enhancing the lives of Thai citizens through the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy. This philosophy, championed by the late King, continues to guide Thailand's national development and has been shared as a sustainable model worldwide, including in Africa, amid contemporary global challenges.

(l) Ambassador Pratoomkaew with South African Minister of Health Joseph Phaahla. (r) Guests at the celebration

The diplomatic ties between Thailand and South Africa, established in December 1993, have thrived, fostering cordial relations and fruitful cooperation. Discussions earlier this year in Bangkok at the 7th Senior Officials’ Meeting reaffirmed mutual interests in enhancing trade, investment, tourism, and public health collaborations. Prospective meetings, such as the 6th Joint Trade Committee Meeting in Thailand and the 3rd Joint Agricultural Working Group Meeting in South Africa, aim to further solidify these partnerships.

Ambassador Pratoomkaew also highlighted Thailand's proactive economic diplomacy following recent general elections. With a renewed commitment to fostering relationships, Thailand seeks to deepen engagement with South Africa, recognizing its potential as a high-value trading partner. Tthe two countries have witnessed a substantial increase in trade, surpassing previous records with a trade volume of 3.6 billion USD by October 2023, aiming for a target of 6 billion USD. Discussions for a Free Trade Area agreement with the Southern African Customs Union are underway, indicating a commitment to expansive economic collaboration.

Thai companies in automotive parts, food, and hospitality industries have expanded their footprint across South Africa, recognizing it as a gateway to the African continent and the African Continental Free Trade Area.

Moreover, tourism remains a focal point, with Thailand keen on bolstering connections between the nations. The negotiation of a Memorandum of Understanding in tourism cooperation aims to further facilitate people-to-people exchanges. South African tourist numbers to Thailand have shown promising growth, reaching 50% of pre-COVID levels.

Recognizing South Africa's status as the first African country to receive Sectoral Dialogue Partner status with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in July 2023, Thailand pledged support, foreseeing deeper cooperation. Additionally, Thailand commended South Africa's active chairmanship of the Foreign Policy and Global Health Initiative (FPGH), offering continuous support and intending to share its successful Universal Health Coverage scheme.

Ambassador Pratoomkaew expressed confidence in the enduring friendship and robust relations between Thailand and South Africa. The Embassy remains committed to fostering stronger bonds and meaningful cooperation with the South African Government and private sector, affirming the shared commitment to furthering bilateral ties.

TDS

Photos credit: Embassy of Thailand in Pretoria, South Africa

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