From 23 - 24 February 2026, H.E. Mr. Sihasak Phuangketkeow, Minister of Foreign Affairs paid a visit to Paris, French Republic, and Geneva, Swiss Confederation.

On 23 February 2026, the Minister met with the Director-General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). Both sides exchanged views on the administration of UNESCO and the ongoing cooperation between Thailand and UNESCO in the protection of cultural property. The Minister also held a bilateral meeting with the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of the French Republic to explore ways to strengthen cooperation and elevate bilateral relations to a “Strategic Partnership” on the occasion of the 170th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Thailand and France. The Minister also provided updated and balanced information on the Thailand - Cambodia border situation, an issue of interest to both UNESCO and France, and gave an interview to France24 on the matter.

On 24 February 2026, the Minister delivered a statement at the High-Level Segment of the 61st session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (HRC) in Geneva, presenting Thailand’s vision and perspectives as a member of the HRC for the 2025 - 2027 term on regional and global human rights situations, as well as on enhancing the Council’s functioning amid current geopolitical challenges. The Minister also highlighted Thailand’s notable role in advancing human rights, particularly efforts to combat online scam-related crimes that adversely affect human rights. The Minister further shared information concerning the Thailand - Cambodia border situation, reiterating Thailand’s desire for sustainable peace with its neighboring country. Furthermore, the Minister called upon Cambodia to cease provocative actions, including dissemination of unfounded allegations, as well as an attempt to internationalize this bilateral issue. Lastly, the Minister urged Cambodia to return to the path of peace for the well-being of the peoples of both countries and for genuine peace, which must be grounded in respect for the human rights of all without discrimination.

The Minister met with the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights to discuss ways to further enhance cooperation between Thailand and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, particularly in the protection of victims of online scam networks - an issue Thailand has actively advanced since last year. The Minister also held bilateral meetings with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Norway and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Rwanda to discuss issues of mutual interest and potential areas of cooperation in the future, as well as attending a high-level reception hosted by Zambia to launch the candidature for the HRC 2027 - 2029.

The visit to Paris and Geneva was an opportunity for Thailand to reflect its perspectives on human rights situation in the region and globally, and to strengthen networks and partnerships to further advance efforts to combat online scams from a human rights perspective and on a broader scale. Thailand also took this opportunity to share updated and balanced information with the international community regarding Thailand’s actions in the Thailand - Cambodia border situation.