On March 10, 2025, Mr. Maris Sangiampongsa, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, addressed questions from Senator Wuthisapah about Thailand's potential membership in BRICS, which includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—key players among the world’s rapidly developing economies.
During the Senate meeting, Mr. Maris emphasized Thailand's decision to pursue this partnership as part of its economic diplomacy strategy, aimed at enhancing the nation’s competitiveness and ensuring it retains significance on the international stage. He noted, "Joining BRICS is not merely about seeking alliances; it’s about raising our capabilities and providing Thailand with the opportunity to exert positive change globally, especially as part of this growing group of nations. BRICS serves as a collective entity for developing countries, and our participation aligns with our objectives to advance mutual interests among nations facing similar challenges."
The Minister clarified the rationale behind joining BRICS. It is expected to facilitate Thailand's efforts to partner and engage positively with developing countries, especially amid geopolitical challenges and the rising significance of technology, cybersecurity, and energy security. Mr. Maris remarked on the need for Thailand to establish solid international partnerships without showing favoritism. He stated, "We are actively seeking diverse cooperation, through bilateral and multilateral platforms, which strengthen our position as we navigate our interests on the world stage."
It was also confirmed by Mr. Maris during the session, reflecting on the opinion of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Cabinet, “Our acceptance of participation is unilateral and does not bind us legally; the letter confirming our participation holds no treaty power and does not require legislative approval under Article 178 of the Constitution.” This nuance suggests Thailand’s approach to external partnerships is carefully considered to avoid any legal complications.
While the BRICS membership takes shape, Mr. Maris reiterated Thailand's active engagement on multiple fronts, including multinational cooperation frameworks spearheaded by the United States. This includes initiatives like the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF). He highlighted, "Thailand plays a defining role within IPEF, earning the praise of the United States, especially for our investment efforts and infrastructural developments aimed at Southeast Asian neighbors as part of this economic collaboration."
Mr. Maris also acknowledged other existing frameworks, such as the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), Asian-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), and Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) initiatives. He noted, "All these engagements signal Thailand’s commitment not just to regional aspirations but to garnering international support for its developmental strategies without being viewed as obstructive or biased.”
Highlighting Thailand's engagement with European nations, he elaborated on the significance of the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA) with the European Union (EU). The PCA is aimed at facilitating trade relations, which is part of broader discussions about establishing Free Trade Agreements (FTA) with the EU.
Mr. Maris confirmed Thailand’s determination to reduce trade barriers with European countries and emphasized the importance of the newly established free trade agreement with the European Free Trade Association (EFTA). This move demonstrates Thailand's calculated strategy to maintain balanced diplomatic relationships with both developed and developing nations.
The Minister encapsulated his thoughts on recent international developments, stating, "Our engagement strategy is not about choosing sides; it’s about ensuring Thailand navigates effectively within its international relationships, maintaining equilibrium to safeguard our national interest."
Mr. Maris concluded by stating his recent conversations with leaders from various countries, including the U.S., reaffirming Thailand's longstanding partnerships. He expressed optimism about maintaining and strengthening these bilateral ties to support Thailand's operational goals.
Through his comprehensive insights, Mr. Maris signified the broader intention behind Thailand’s diplomacy, which is to strategically position itself amid geopolitical tensions and develop its international trade avenues effectively. His assurance to the Senate painted Thailand not merely as passive actors on the world stage but as proactive participants eager to shape its destiny within the growing global economy.