Kuala Lumpur: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra have pledged to strengthen the Philippines and Thailand's cooperation in strategic areas, including trade and investment, agriculture, and artificial intelligence (AI). The commitment was made when Marcos and Paetongtarn held a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the 46th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre in Malaysia.

According to Philippines News Agency, the two leaders agreed to harness innovation and economic complementarity to drive inclusive and sustainable growth in the region. Marcos emphasized the importance of renewing and deepening the Philippines' long-standing ties with Thailand, as they mark the 76th year of diplomatic relations established on June 14, 1949.

Both leaders reaffirmed their mutual commitment to strengthening bilateral relations further and exploring new areas of collaboration that align with their respective national development goals. Marcos noted the need to enhance the two nations' ties and cooperation, considering the global economy is facing issues that are challenging to predict and forecast.

Marcos highlighted the potential for partnerships in the electronics, AI, copper, vehicle wiring, and precious metals industries between Manila and Bangkok. He also welcomed the commitment of a leading Thai agricultural company to invest in the Philippines, underscoring the importance of public-private partnerships (PPP) in stimulating the Philippines' economic growth. Marcos expressed interest in increasing Philippine exports to Thailand for a more balanced trade, noting Thailand is the Philippines' sixth largest trading partner in 2024.

Prime Minister Paetongtarn expressed her intent to broaden agricultural cooperation with the Philippines, mentioning Thailand's interest in investing significantly in research and development. She encouraged other countries to invest in both Thailand and the Philippines.

Marcos stated that the two countries would also enhance their cooperation to combat transnational crime, stressing the need for collaboration in ensuring peace, security, and development in the region. Additionally, Marcos extended an invitation for Paetongtarn to visit the Philippines during their bilateral meeting.