Showing 1 - 10 of 19
Anutin 2 govt's foreign policy outlook
News, Kavi Chongkittavorn, Published on 17/02/2026
» To say that diplomacy under the upcoming Anutin 2 government will differ significantly from its first, short-lived period in power would be an exaggeration. However, one thing is clear: following the electoral landslide, the new cabinet will be rock solid. A government with such stability will exert a strong influence on Thai foreign policy.
Thaksin looms over Thai foreign policy
Oped, Kavi Chongkittavorn, Published on 04/01/2025
» Thai diplomacy has recently reared its ugly head. Two approaches are at play -- the official one pronounced in parliament in September and the informal one made by former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra at any given moment. Truth be told, the latter seems to overshadow the former. The Thaksinisation of Thai foreign policy is coming back with a loud bang.
Vietnam's bamboo diplomacy at play
Oped, Kavi Chongkittavorn, Published on 25/06/2024
» In front of a gigantic golden statue of President Ho Chi Minh, President Vladimir Putin stood, solemnly shaking hands with his counterpart President To Lam. The iconic photo underscored the ties that bind the two nations.
Towards strategic Thai-French ties
Oped, Kavi Chongkittavorn, Published on 14/05/2024
» In April 2022, Thailand learned that French President Emmanuel Macron was keen to engage with the Asia-Pacific region in person. As the host of the 32nd Asia-Pacific Economic Leaders' Meeting (Apec) in October of that year, former deputy prime minister and foreign minister Don Pramudwinai quickly issued an invitation to the president to attend as a guest. The rest, as they say, is history.
Asean juggles triangular power game
Oped, Kavi Chongkittavorn, Published on 09/04/2024
» A rising China, a trusted Japan, and a declining America are three cogs dictating the global geopolitical landscape in Southeast Asia in the months, if not years, to come. Amidst intensifying geopolitics, Asean is in a position where this could either be a blessing or a curse.
Parnpree to diplomats: 'Don't give up'
Oped, Kavi Chongkittavorn, Published on 28/11/2023
» 'Do not take no for an answer" could be the new hashtag for all Thai diplomats from now on. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahidha-Nukara instructed his lieutenants not to give up or allow themselves to be turned down too easily when they are pursuing a "proactive economic policy".
First look at new Thai diplomatic tactics
Oped, Kavi Chongkittavorn, Published on 10/10/2023
» In deciphering the 1,288-word Thai foreign policy statement announced last week, it is important to start at the very end. The last paragraph of "Thailand's Challenges: How to Thrive in Rising Geopolitical Uncertainty", put forward by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara, was particularly revealing. He said succinctly that Thai diplomatic platforms must complement the government's domestic policies to improve people's standard of living and create job opportunities in order to get the country back in the global economic and political arena with dignity. In addition, it must enable the Thai business sector to grow and prosper domestically and internationally to increase confidence in Thailand.
Which way Pheu Thai-led diplomacy?
Oped, Kavi Chongkittavorn, Published on 29/08/2023
» Without being labelled as an autocratic regime, the diplomatic posture of the incoming government under Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin will be more vigorous and build on existing progress and achievements. Even though the government's official policy has yet to be announced, it is not difficult to outline some of the salient features of Pheu Thai-led foreign policy practices.
Vietnam's 'bamboo' foreign policy clout
Oped, Kavi Chongkittavorn, Published on 25/04/2023
» Vietnam is the only Southeast Asian country at this critical moment to be facing a major challenge as it attempts to juggle the three great powers -- China, Russia, and the US -- simultaneously. It is as if Hanoi is keeping a dagger, a bomb, and a gun in perpetual mid-air flight to ensure the tripartite relations will not crash along the way. It is bamboo diplomacy Vietnamese style, at its very best in keeping these extraordinary allies and friends at bay. In recent years, the bamboo policy description has been widely used due to the country's distinctive diplomacy.
Sino-Russia ties: A Thai perspective
Oped, Kavi Chongkittavorn, Published on 28/03/2023
» Watching Sino-Russia relations from Beijing gives off a different feeling altogether.