His Excellency Mr. Don Pramudwinai, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand, paid a visit to the Italian Republic during 1 – 2 March 2018 after the visit to the Kingdom of Thailand by the Honourable Angelino Alfano, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Italian Republic, during 8 - 9 February 2018.

 

The exchange of visits coincided with an important milestone in bilateral relations, as this year 2018 marks the 150th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

 

During the meeting held on 2 March 2018, both sides noted with satisfaction their genuine commitment to resume and increase political contacts at all levels, and discussed possible ways to materialize initiatives agreed upon by both sides at the previous meeting held in Bangkok. 

 

In reaffirming its intention to intensify existing relations towards a strategic partnership, the Italian side agreed to Thailand’s proposal to reactivate the Thailand-Italy Joint Committee, at the ministerial level, and relevant working groups, under the existing Basic Agreement of Co-operation between the Kingdom of Thailand and the Italian Republic to advance cooperation in all areas. In this connection, Thailand expressed her readiness to host the Second Thailand – Italy Political Consultation which would be the main mechanism to prepare the groundwork to reactivate the Joint Committee.

 

The Italian side showed keen interest in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). Both sides further explored possible activities to enhance bilateral trade and investment, including Thailand’s EEC roadshow. The Italian side hoped to have its country presentation as well as business missions explore trade and investment opportunities in Thailand, particularly, in the EEC.

 

Both sides agreed to support the Thai-Italy Business Forum, which has been instrumental in increasing trade and investment volume between the two countries. Both sides noted as an exemplary case, the Central Group’s investment in La Rinascente in Italy, which has not only contributed to Italy’s economy but also increased Thailand’s visibility amongst the Italians.

 

On regional and global issues, both Foreign Ministers touched upon matters relating to ASEAN-EU relations. In this connection, Thailand welcomed Italy’s intention to play a more active role in the region, while encouraging the Italian side to consider further engagement with ACMECS and ASEAN.

 

Thailand reiterated her appreciation for Italy’s understanding of the current political transition in Thailand and the continued support of the government’s efforts towards a sustainable democracy according to the Roadmap and for Italy’s support of Thailand in its relations with the EU. The Thai Foreign Minister reaffirmed Thailand’s commitment to human rights and the situation in the Rakhine State.

 

Last, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand conveyed his high appreciation to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Italy for the excellent hospitality extended to him and the Thai delegation.

 

Following the EU Foreign Affairs Conclusions in December 2017, Italy became the first EU Member State to send a delegation at the Ministerial level to Thailand, while Italy is the first EU member state which Thailand chose for the Foreign Minister of Thailand to pay a high-level visit.