BEIJING – In a significant diplomatic move, Chinese leader Xi Jinping and Thai King Maha Vajiralongkorn agreed on closer relations during the latter’s historic visit to China on October 13, 2023. This marks the first time a reigning Thai monarch has visited China, a move aimed at celebrating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two nations.
The meeting took place at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, where Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan, welcomed Vajiralongkorn and Queen Suthida. Xi described the relationship between China and Thailand as one of “truly good relatives, good friends and good partners,” according to the state-run Xinhua News Agency.
Expanding Economic Cooperation
During the discussions, Xi expressed China’s intent to enhance agricultural imports from Thailand. He also highlighted areas for potential cooperation, including railway development, artificial intelligence, and aerospace industries. This focus on expanding economic ties underscores China’s position as Thailand’s largest trading partner, a relationship that has deepened in recent years amid shifting global trade dynamics.
Vajiralongkorn characterized the bilateral relationship as one of “brotherly cooperation” and conveyed his desire for increased exchanges across various sectors. This visit is particularly significant as it follows the King’s only second official trip abroad since ascending to the throne in 2016, indicating a warming of relations with China.
The royal couple’s itinerary includes visits to a Buddhist temple and an aerospace development hub in Beijing, culminating in a state banquet. These activities reflect both cultural and economic aspects of the relationship.
Geopolitical Context and Strategic Interests
While Thailand remains an official military ally of the United States, its growing ties with China raise questions about its geopolitical positioning. Increased Chinese investment in Thailand has accelerated, particularly as many Chinese companies relocate production to Southeast Asia to circumvent U.S. tariffs.
Earlier this year, Thai authorities made headlines by deporting 40 Uyghur asylum-seekers back to China, a decision that drew criticism from the U.S. This move, along with the censorship of an exhibition in Bangkok featuring works by Tibetan, Uyghur, and Hong Kong artists, suggests a delicate balance Thailand is attempting to maintain in its foreign policy.
Moreover, China has actively encouraged Thailand and its Southeast Asian neighbors to tackle cross-border cyber scams, further intertwining their collaborative efforts.
As both nations look to the future, this historic visit by King Vajiralongkorn could pave the way for deeper collaboration in multiple fields, reinforcing the idea that Thailand and China are not just trading partners but allies with shared interests on the global stage.
