Bangkok, November 15, 2024 — The Europe Today: Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is set to visit Malaysia in December to bolster bilateral ties, enhance trade cooperation, and address border security challenges. Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul emphasized on Thursday that her trip aims to promote mutual benefits, particularly through improved border management.
The announcement followed Malaysian ambassador Datuk Jojie Samuel’s farewell visit, during which border cooperation, economic initiatives, transportation enhancements, and safety measures were discussed. “Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is confident border management must be discussed to see greater benefits for both countries,” Anutin stated.
Key topics on the agenda include the construction of a second friendship bridge over the Sungai Kolok River, linking Narathiwat province in Thailand with Rantau Panjang in Malaysia, with an aim to facilitate logistics and tourism flows between the two nations.
In related diplomatic efforts, Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong, accompanied by Thai representatives, participated in the “Kuala Lumpur Forum on International Arbitration 2024.” Hosted by Azalina Othman Said, Malaysia’s Minister of Legal and Institute Revolution, the forum sought to explore effective arbitration models, innovative practices, and collaborative networks for advancing arbitration across Southeast Asia.
Minister Tawee highlighted Malaysia’s commitment to regional leadership in arbitration and its collaboration with Thailand to promote “digital justice.” He also met with Malaysian Speaker Tan Sri Dato’ Johari Abdul to discuss strengthening legislative cooperation, personnel exchanges, promoting peace in southern border provinces, and supporting Thai workers in Malaysia.
The visit is expected to foster deeper collaboration in addressing shared challenges and advancing economic, legal, and cross-border initiatives.
