On 15 October 2026, H.E. Mr. Sarun Charoensuwan, Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs, on behalf of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, joined H.E. Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister, in welcoming H.E. Mr. Guy Parmelin, President of the Swiss Confederation, on his official visit to Thailand from 15-17 October 2026, as well as his participation in the Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank Group. The visit coincides with the 95th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Thailand and Switzerland this year. The President was accompanied by Mrs. Caroline Parmelin, his spouse, and a high-level delegation, including representatives of the Swiss business community.

The Prime Minister and the President of the Swiss Confederation held bilateral discussions, with a view to strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation in areas of mutual interest and potential. The key areas of discussion were as follows:

On trade and investment, both sides underscored the importance of the early entry into force of the Thailand-European Free Trade Association (EFTA) Free Trade Agreement, with a view to expanding trade and investment opportunities and strengthening business-to-business ties. Particular emphasis was placed on investment in high-value industries, advanced technologies and industries of the future, as well as technology transfer and the development of joint supply chains. Switzerland has been Thailand’s largest trading partner in Europe since 2025 and remains an important economic partner. The Prime Minister also welcomed the participation of the Swiss business delegation accompanying the President, recognising the visit as an opportunity to further strengthen cooperation between the private sectors of both countries.

On climate action and the green transition, both sides discussed ways to build on their cooperation under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, particularly the Bangkok E-Bus Programme, under which approximately 2,000 electric buses are currently in operation. The programme contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution, promoting cleaner transport and improving people’s quality of life. Both sides also expressed their intention to expand cooperation through new projects. In this regard, Switzerland’s KliK Foundation plans to purchase carbon credits from projects in Thailand, with a total estimated value of approximately USD 120 million, subject to the projects receiving authorisation from both governments. This is expected to support investment in green technologies and Thailand’s transition towards a low-carbon economy.

On science, technology and innovation, both sides emphasised the importance of promoting cooperation among research institutions, universities and the private sector to advance research and development, knowledge and technology transfer, and the practical application of innovation to enhance economic competitiveness.

On education and human capital development, both sides discussed opportunities to expand cooperation in education, workforce skills development, and technical and vocational education and training (TVET), with a view to developing a highly skilled workforce capable of meeting the needs of future industries.

The visit reflects the close and longstanding relations between Thailand and Switzerland, as well as their shared commitment to advancing a forward-looking partnership by building on the complementary strengths and potential of both countries to deliver tangible benefits to their peoples and business communities.

Following the bilateral discussions, the Prime Minister hosted an official luncheon in honour of the President of the Swiss Confederation and his delegation at Government House.