Thai Foreign Minister Addresses Taiwan Statement, Reaffirms 'One China' Principle

Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkaew summarized his participation in the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting and related conferences held in Manila, Philippines. The meetings saw the attendance of not only ASEAN's 10 member states but also 11 dialogue partners, along with regional forums such as the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), East Asia Summit (EAS), and the Mekong-Japan and Mekong-Korea Cooperation meetings, underscoring ASEAN's global significance. Key agenda items included global uncertainties, increasing conflicts, particularly the situation in the Middle East (fighting between Israel and Iran), freedom of navigation and security in the South China Sea, and the situation in Myanmar. Regarding Myanmar, Minister Sihasak emphasized the promotion of dialogue and increased humanitarian assistance, stating that Thailand, as a neighbor, is directly affected and is pursuing a "two-pronged" policy to achieve peace and reconciliation. He also indicated a strengthened stance against online scams, recognizing them as a serious threat in cooperation with countries like the United States. Furthermore, it was announced that Myanmar's Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, is scheduled to visit Thailand from August 6-7 to discuss issues such as drug trafficking, border conflicts, and river pollution. This visit aims to facilitate progress in Myanmar's internal affairs through direct dialogue with the individual holding decision-making authority. Addressing Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs' expression of disappointment over the joint Thai-Chinese statement that declared Taiwan as an inalienable part of China, Minister Sihasak firmly stated that this reflects Thailand's long-standing and consistent "One China" policy, with no change in its stance. He noted that many countries adhere to this principle, and Thailand maintains good relations with Taiwan in economic, trade, and cultural aspects, thus expecting no impact on visa exemption schemes. Source: INN News