Thai PM begins official visit to France

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul began his official visit to France today, at the invitation of French President Emmanuel Macron, aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and promoting cooperation in trade, energy and transport, government spokesperson Ratchada Dhnadirek said yesterday.

Anutin is scheduled to meet Macron during a working dinner as part of the visit, she said.

The talks are expected to focus on developing Thai-French relations towards a strategic partnership, as the two countries mark the 170th anniversary of formal diplomatic relations this year.

During the weeklong visit, Ratchada said the prime minister will also meet senior representatives of international organisations during the trip. He is scheduled to hold discussions with the director of the International Energy Agency on energy security cooperation.

Anutin will also meet the director-general of UNESCO, to follow up on discussions held on May 15th and to promote Thai culture on the global stage.

The government plans to push for the registration of the ‘Thai costume’ as an item of intangible cultural heritage later this year.

The move is aimed at boosting international recognition and creating added value for Thailand’s creative economy, including fashion, handicrafts, tourism and Thai soft power.