On 17 April 2024, H.E. Mr. Srettha Thavisin, Prime Minister, along with H.E. Mr. Jakkapong Sangmanee, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, as well as representatives from relevant agencies, extended a warm welcome to the Right Honourable Christopher Luxon, Prime Minister of New Zealand during his Official Visit to the Kingdom of Thailand between 16-18 April 2024.

During their bilateral meeting, the Thai Prime Minister and the Prime Minister of New Zealand discussed ways to further strengthen the close and cordial relations between Thailand and New Zealand. This includes areas of defence and security, economy, clean energy, innovation, education, and culture. Both Prime Ministers also agreed to foster people-to-people cooperation and exchanged views on regional issues.

Furthermore, a Joint Statement between the Prime Minister and Prime Minister of New Zealand was issued. The Joint Statement indicates the elevation of the Thai-New Zealand bilateral relations to a Strategic Partnership by 2026, which will mark the 70th anniversary of the Thailand-New Zealand diplomatic relations. This includes the roadmap for both countries on deepening and broadening cooperation in diverse areas towards the Strategic Partnership.

Lastly, the New Zealand business delegation, which includes high-level executives from prominent New Zealand businesses, paid a courtesy call on the Thai Prime Minister. On this occasion, the Prime Minister shared Thailand’s economic policies and exchanged views with the New Zealand business delegation on ways to further mutual trade and investment, particularly on the sector of agricultural technology, food innovation, circular energy, as well as human development and the resumption of direct flights between the two countries.