HANOI, Vietnam — Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra arrived in Hanoi today for her first official visit to Vietnam as Prime Minister, marking the first visit by a Thai Prime Minister in 11 years. The visit, taking place on May 15 and 16, follows an invitation from Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and includes co-chairing the 4th Thailand–Vietnam Joint Cabinet Retreat (JCR).
Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh hosted a dinner in honor of Prime Minister Paetongtarn at the Government Office, underscoring the strong ties and warm relationship between the two leaders.
During her visit, Prime Minister Paetongtarn will meet with Thai and Vietnamese business leaders, including representatives from Vietjet Air and FPT Corporation. She is also scheduled to attend official ceremonies to pay respects at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Bac Son Monument before holding bilateral talks and co-chairing the JCR meeting on May 16.
The talks are expected to focus on deepening cooperation in politics, security, and economic development, with both sides aiming to upgrade their relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership. Key discussion points include enhancing trade, investment, and improving regional connectivity across ASEAN.
The Thai delegation includes senior officials from the ministries of transport, foreign affairs, tourism, and finance, alongside representatives from the Prime Minister’s Office. A business forum will also be held to promote private sector collaboration in technology, logistics, and tourism.
This marks the fourth Thailand–Vietnam JCR since its inception in 2004. The upcoming session is anticipated to advance bilateral cooperation and strengthen economic and regional ties for the long term.
Vietnamese officials, including Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Nguyen Van Hung and Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Nguyen Manh Cuong, welcomed the Prime Minister upon her arrival at Noi Bai International Airport.
Vietnamese Ambassador to Thailand Pham Viet Hung highlighted the visit’s importance in boosting the already strong partnership between the two countries.