On 15 July 2026, Mrs. Hataya Khusakul, Director-General of the Department of American and South Pacific Affairs, met with H.E. Ms. Raylene Siale Tagaloa Liufalani, Ambassador of New Zealand to Thailand, on the occasion of her assumption of duty. Both sides discussed ways to advance close bilateral cooperation in celebration of the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and New Zealand in 2026. Key areas of discussion included elevating bilateral relations to a Strategic Partnership and implementing the Thailand - New Zealand Joint Plan of Action 2026 - 2030 to achieve concrete and mutually beneficial outcomes across all dimensions, including political and security, economic and trade, innovation, culture, and people-to-people connectivity.

Furthermore, both sides agreed on the importance of strengthening cooperation between middle powers that share common values to effectively navigate volatile geopolitical challenges. They also reaffirmed their commitment to promoting economic cooperation, including New Zealand's support for Thailand under the Future of Investment and Trade Partnership (FITP) framework. Additionally, both sides emphasized enhancing cooperation on energy and food security, combating transnational crime, and fostering cooperation through the ASEAN - New Zealand Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the Mekong sub-regional framework to ensure long-term stability and prosperity in the region.