The official welcoming ceremony for General Secretary, President To Lam and his spouse took place at the Thai Government House in Bangkok on the morning of 28/5, according to VNA. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul welcomed and shook hands with General Secretary, President To Lam at the parking area in the grand hall.

General Secretary, President To Lam and Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul on the ceremonial stand for the flag-raising ceremony. *Photo: VNA*

The two leaders then ascended the ceremonial stand for the flag-raising ceremony, as the military band played the national anthems of Vietnam and Thailand. After inspecting the Royal Thai Army honor guard, the two leaders introduced their respective delegations and held talks.

This marks the first visit by General Secretary, President To Lam to an ASEAN country in his new capacity. It takes place as relations between the two countries were elevated to a comprehensive strategic partnership in 5/2025.

Thailand is currently Vietnam's largest trading partner in ASEAN. In 2025, total bilateral trade turnover reached 22,1 billion USD, an increase of 9% compared to 2024. For the first 4 months of 2026, bilateral turnover reached nearly 8,6 billion USD, a 24% increase over the same period in 2025.

Regarding investment, Thailand currently has 797 valid investment projects in Vietnam with a total registered capital of 15,4 billion USD, ranking 8th out of 153 countries and second among ASEAN countries. Vietnam has over 20 valid investment projects in Thailand, with a total registered capital of approximately 40 million USD.

General Secretary, President To Lam and Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul inspect the Royal Thai Army honor guard. *Photo: VNA*

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Nguyen Manh Cuong stated, "The visit demonstrates Vietnam's high regard for its relationship with Thailand and for the Southeast Asian region. It is also an opportunity for high-level leaders from both countries to engage in extensive discussions on major orientations to effectively implement the new cooperation framework, thereby generating further momentum for bilateral relations in the coming period."

The visit is expected to open new developments in trade, investment, logistics, and supply chain connectivity. The two sides have significant potential for cooperation in new areas such as: digital transformation, green economy, circular economy, renewable energy, innovation, and industrial transformation.

Ngoc Anh