THE Philippines and Thailand sought to fortify their bilateral relations through expanded trade, investment and cross-border partnerships as economic collaboration takes center stage in regional diplomacy.
Speaking at the Thailand-Philippines Business Forum on Saturday in Makati City, Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sihasak Phuangketkeow said modern foreign policy is increasingly geared toward commercial opportunities rather than traditional political and defense concerns alone.
“Foreign policy is no longer just about politics and security — it is about business and creating opportunities,” he said.
The forum, which brought together 45 companies in Thailand from various industries such as health care and agriculture, sought to explore commercial ventures and strengthen economic ties between the two Southeast Asian neighbors.
“Between our two countries, Thailand and the Philippines share more than just a geographic proximity. Between our two countries, we share a history of friendship. Today, we come together not merely to maintain what has been built but to forge something more into the new," Phuangketkeow said.
The forum also featured the signing of several memorandums of understanding (MOUs) between the two nations.
These agreements include collaborations in renewable energy, startup ecosystems, and even defense technologies, showcasing the evolving nature of economic diplomacy.
Phuangketkeow emphasized that such partnerships are not just transactional but reflect a deeper commitment to shared prosperity
“We are living in an interconnected world where the economy dictates much of our foreign interactions,” Phuangketkeow said.
Thailand is looking to position itself as a leader in fostering international business partnerships and noted that fostering collaboration in emerging industries is now at the forefront of diplomatic priorities.
Meanwhile, Emmanuel Samson, special envoy of the president to Thailand, highlighted key growth sectors within the Philippines that are ready for foreign capital.
“We are especially keen to attract high investments in food processing, cold chain and packaging technology,” Samson said.
“Our national digital connectivity plan, along with our e-commerce and fintech sectors, is rapidly maturing this landscape, creating unprecedented opportunities for Thai companies,” Samson added.