Thai Prime Minister: We will maintain the independence of our decision in the face of competition among global powers

Kuala Lumpur, Aug 18 (KUNA) -- Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul affirmed today that his country will not side with any of the global powers in their competition and will maintain its independent decision-making and diverse strategic options to address the growing uncertainty in the international system. He made these remarks in a speech delivered at the Lowy Institute in Sydney, Australia, titled “Beyond the Thailand-Australia Bilateral Partnership and Strengthening the International System through Regional and Minilateral Cooperation,” on the sidelines of his visit to Australia.

Anutin, who also serves as Thailand’s Minister of Interior, said his country embraces the concept of “strategic autonomy,” which does not mean isolating itself from other countries or adopting a neutral stance on every issue, but rather retaining the ability to make independent decisions, define national interests, work with a diverse range of partners, and assess each issue based on facts and national interest.

He clarified that expanding constructive relations with various partners provides countries with broader options and reduces the likelihood of being pressured into following a path that serves another country’s interests. He stressed that nations should chart their own course without being forced to choose a side or join a specific bloc.

He outlined three pathways for engaging with the current international system: enhancing regional capacity to address challenges, maintaining strategic autonomy, and building resilience through deeper economic integration. (End)