On 11 August 2026, H.E. Mr. Sihasak Phuangketkeow, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, met with H.E. Ms. Raylene Siale Tagaloa Liufalani, Ambassador of New Zealand to Thailand, on the occasion of her assumption of duty. Both sides discussed elevating Thailand – New Zealand relations to a Strategic Partnership and promoting high-level exchanges to commemorate the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and New Zealand in 2026. They also reaffirmed their commitment to taking proactive actions under existing cooperation frameworks, particularly delivering concrete outcomes through the Joint Plan of Action 2026 - 2030.

On the economic front, both sides are committed to triple trade value by 2045, expand reciprocal investment, and strengthen people-to-people connections, including resumption of direct flights and enhancing cooperation between the two countries’ airports.

They also agreed to advance regional cooperation, particularly in the Mekong subregion where New Zealand plays a vital role in supporting sustainable development cooperation and human resource development through the Mekong Institute and the Mekong River Commission, with a particular focus on combating transnational crime. Furthermore, both sides reaffirmed their readiness to collaborate in addressing global challenges, including food security, energy, and cybersecurity.