Thailand is the first ASEAN member state that General Secretary and President To Lam has visited following Vietnam’s successful organization of the 14th National Party Congress and the election of deputies to the 16th National Assembly. The visit comes shortly after Thailand formed a new government following its general election, reflecting the importance both countries attach to bilateral ties.
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General Secretary and President To Lam and his spouse (Photo: dangcongsan.vn) |
Since establishing diplomatic relations in August 1976, Vietnam and Thailand have built a strong and comprehensive relationship founded on mutual trust and understanding. In 2013, the two countries became the first ASEAN members to establish a strategic partnership, paving the way for deeper cooperation across multiple sectors. In 2025, the relationship was elevated to a comprehensive strategic partnership, opening a new chapter of bilateral relations for peace, stability, shared prosperity, sustainable development, and a sustainable future.
Over the past five decades, Vietnam - Thailand relations have continued to grow despite regional and global changes. Both countries remain committed to strengthening cooperation on the basis of respect for international law, independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity, mutual interests, and each other’s political systems.
Economic cooperation has emerged as a key highlight in the bilateral relations. Thailand is currently Vietnam’s largest trading partner within ASEAN, with two-way trade reaching USD 22.1 billion in 2025, up 9 percent from 2024. Thailand is also Vietnam’s eighth-largest foreign investor, with nearly 800 active projects worth more than USD 15 billion in registered capital. The two countries are advancing the “Three Connections” strategy, focusing on connecting supply chains, connecting businesses and localities and connecting sustainable growth strategies.
The Vietnamese community of more than 100,000 people in Thailand has maintained strong patriotic and revolutionary traditions while continuing to contribute to Vietnam’s national development. The Thai Government has recognized their legal status for residence and employment and has supported the preservation of Vietnamese cultural and religious sites, including Ho Chi Minh memorial sites and the world’s first officially recognized “Vietnam Town” in Udon Thani province.
In 2026, Vietnam and Thailand will celebrate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations. Against the backdrop of strong bilateral achievements, the visit by General Secretary and President To Lam offers an opportunity for both countries to review the progress made over the past half-century while creating new momentum for broader and more effective cooperation. The visit is expected to further deepen bilateral ties in line with the potential and standing of both nations, while contributing to peace, cooperation, and development in the region and the world.
By the Editorial Board of the People’s Army Newspaper
Translated by Tran Hoai