On 26 July 2022, DPM/FM Don Pramudwinai had a telephone conversation with Senator the Honourable Penny Wong, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Australia, as an introductory call upon assumption of duty as Australia’s Foreign Minister under new Australian administration after the victory in the General Election in May 2022.  

Both sides expressed their satisfaction that the bilateral relations are dynamic and close and congratulated on the 70th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations this year. The two Foreign Ministers reiterated their commitments to further enhancing relations and cooperation under the Strategic Partnership and pleased that the Joint Plan of Action to Implement the Strategic Partnership is at final stage and set to be signed this year as part of the 70th anniversary celebration. Under the Joint Plan of Action which covers multi-dimensional areas of cooperation, in line with Thailand’s BCG Economy Model, towards post-COVID19 recovery and attainable goals of climate action.

Thailand is keen to work closely with Australia in the areas of renewable energy and low emission technology as well as non-traditional security issues such as countering trafficking in persons, including the establishment of the Counter Trafficking in Persons Center of Excellence in Thailand. In addition, Thailand stands ready to support Australia’s constructive role in regional and Mekong sub-region frameworks, especially under ASEAN-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) and ACMECS with Australia as an active Development Partner.

Both sides also exchanged views on regional developments, including the situation in Myanmar and ways to provide humanitarian assistance to Myanmar. As APEC host, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister stressed Thailand’s efforts in intensifying cooperation with Australia for inclusive and sustainable economic growth under the theme “Open. Connect. Balance.” and looks forward to welcoming the Prime Minister of Australia to the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting in November this year.