Thailand and Australia announces the Elevation of Thailand-Australia Bilateral Relations to a Strategic Partnership

On 13 November 2020, H.E. General Prayut Chan-o-cha, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand, and the Honourable Scott Morrison, Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of Australia, announced the elevation of Thailand-Australia bilateral relations to a “Strategic Partnership”. The two Leaders met and signed virtually the Joint Declaration on the Strategic Partnership between the Kingdom of Thailand and Australia.

The Strategic Partnership between Thailand and Australia reflects both countries’ confidence and commitment in promoting and deepening closer ties aimed to achieve greater dynamic cooperation. The Strategic Partnership is based on the goodwill and spirit of friendship, mutual respect, and mutual benefit. Thailand and Australia will further strengthen cooperation in key areas, including political and security engagement, economic and technical collaboration in sectors that are crucial for long-term growth and sustainable development, such as science, technology, innovation, education, public health, agriculture, environment, and people to people ties. These areas of cooperation will not only help to support the post COVID-19 socio-economic recovery, but also promote peace, stability, and prosperity for Thailand, Australia and the region.

After the announcement of the Strategic Partnership, relevant agencies from Thailand and Australia will undertake consultations in developing a Joint Plan of Action which will lay out a work plan and concrete activities in line with the Joint Declaration, for future implemention by both sides.