On 25-26 April 2024, Mr. Paisan Rupanichkij, Deputy Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs of Thailand, on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, participated in the 20th ASEAN-Russia Senior Officials’ Meeting (ARSOM) in St. Petersburg, the Russian Federation. The meeting was co-chaired by H.E. Dr. Kung Phoak, the Secretary of State and Senior Official of Cambodia and H.E. Mr. Andrey Rudenko, Deputy Foreign Minister of Russia. The meeting discussed the relations as well as the progress in the implementation of the ASEAN-Russia Comprehensive Plan of Action (2021-2025).

Thailand led the discussion on ASEAN-Russia Cooperation in the Spheres of Economy, Industry, Energy, Finance, Science and Technology, emphasising on the importance of investments and innovation to further advance effective cooperation for the benefits of the people of both sides. The Russian side highlighted the importance in promoting cooperation in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) issues as well as advancing the draft Work Plan under SOMTC + Russia and ASOD + Russia Consultation. The meeting also underscored the importance of enhancing people-to-people ties, especially among youth, through activities such as academic, educational, and cultural exchanges.

Russia has been ASEAN’s Dialogue Partner since 1996. The relations were elevated to a Strategic Partnership in 2018, with many events held to celebrate 5 years of ASEAN-Russia Strategic Partnership in 2023.