Thailand reaffirmed its readiness to support Asean’s united approach to negotiating with the United States on reciprocal tariffs during a bilateral meeting with Malaysia, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra confirmed on 18 April, 2025.
The announcement followed official talks with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who arrived in Bangkok on a two-day working visit at Paetongtarn’s invitation. Their discussions built on prior engagements, including a visit to Kuala Lumpur in December and a phone call on 5 April.
The two leaders exchanged views on Washington’s tariff policies and agreed on the need for coordinated responses at both national and regional levels. They jointly expressed hope that Asean countries would unite to find mutually beneficial outcomes.
Thailand’s Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira will lead a Thai delegation to Washington on 23 April to present proposals aimed at resolving trade tensions. The visit comes after former US President Donald Trump announced on 9 April a temporary pause on reciprocal tariffs, including a 36% levy on Thai goods, though a general 10% tariff remains in effect.
Paetongtarn emphasised that Thailand supports a win-win outcome and views the collective strength of Asean, with a population of about 670 million, as a strategic asset.
During the meeting, both leaders welcomed the signing of an agreement to construct a second parallel bridge over the Golok River, connecting Sungai Kolok in Thailand’s Narathiwat province with Rantau Panjang in Malaysia’s Kelantan state.
The project, expected to be completed by 2027, aims to boost cross-border logistics, enhance trade and support regional economic integration. Both sides hope the bridge will improve infrastructure and facilitate smoother transportation of goods and people.
In addition to infrastructure, they committed to stronger cooperation between Kedah Rubber City in Malaysia and Songkhla Rubber City in Thailand to support rubber farmers and small businesses on both sides.
The Thai and Malaysian leaders also discussed joint assistance efforts for Myanmar, including disaster relief in the aftermath of recent earthquakes. They reiterated the importance of inclusive dialogue and engagement with all stakeholders in Myanmar, aligned with the five-point consensus adopted by Asean in 2021.
Security in Thailand’s southern border provinces was a major focus. Both sides agreed on the need to end violence and promote dialogue. They endorsed initiating preliminary talks (pre-talks) between senior Thai officials and separatist groups.
Paetongtarn committed to advancing peace talks and praised Malaysia’s leadership role within the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), noting its continued efforts in facilitating negotiations with the Barisan Revolusi Nasional (BRN).
Following the official talks, Paetongtarn and Mr Anwar witnessed the signing ceremony for the bridge agreement, underscoring their commitment to concrete cross-border development.
Meanwhile, on the evening of 18 April, informal discussions were held at the Rosewood Bangkok Hotel. Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra hosted a private dinner with Mr Anwar and Min Aung Hlaing, the head of Myanmar’s military junta.
According to sources cited by the Bangkok Post, the discussions focused on reviving the stalled five-point Asean consensus and seeking pathways to a peaceful resolution in Myanmar.
Malaysia, holding the current Asean chairmanship, has played an increasingly active role in navigating the regional response to both trade and security challenges.
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