Thai Foreign Minister Calls for Multilateralism Amid US-China Rivalry

Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow has warned of a breakdown in the rules-based international order and called for a renewed commitment to multilateral cooperation. Speaking in an interview with Euronews in Bangkok, the diplomat stated that individual nations cannot address global challenges in isolation.

Addressing the growing competition between the United States and China, Sihasak outlined Thailand's policy of maintaining constructive relations with both superpowers. He stated that Bangkok requests that its partner nations do not compel it to choose between Washington and Beijing. According to the minister, refraining from taking sides does not equate to absolute neutrality, which he noted may not always serve national interests.

In detailing the economic and security balances, Sihasak cited expanding Chinese investments in Thailand's electric vehicle manufacturing sector while pointing to the ongoing role of the United States in supporting regional security. He described Thailand, within the broader Southeast Asian market of 700 million people, as a geopolitically stable hub aimed at preserving peace and security.

Sihasak underlined the position of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) as a central framework for maintaining stability across the region. Regarding bilateral relations in Southeast Asia, he indicated that Thailand is prepared to restore and strengthen diplomatic ties with neighbouring Cambodia.

On the situation in Myanmar, the Thai foreign minister defended a phased return to regional dialogue involving the country. Sihasak, who brings over four decades of foreign service experience to his role, emphasized that diplomatic engagement within the ASEAN framework remains the intended path for addressing regional security matters.

Written by Martina Kirchner martina.kirchner@alpineweekly.com