On 8 January 2026, H.E. Mr. Sihasak Phuangketkeow, Minister of Foreign Affairs, had a discussion with H.E. Ms. Luisa Ragher, Ambassador of the European Union to Thailand, on the occasion of her assumption of duty.
Both sides welcomed the progress in the Thailand - EU partnership, which has continued to deepen under the Thailand - EU Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA), and agreed on the importance of accelerating negotiations on the Thailand - EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA), aiming to conclude it by 2026. The Foreign Minister also sought the EU’s cooperation in Schengen visa exemption for Thai ordinary passport holders, as well as consideration of the Visa Cascade regime.
Both sides underscored the importance of ASEAN - EU cooperation, particularly in strengthening multilateralism and upholding international law. They also exchanged views on regional developments, including roles in addressing the situation in Myanmar and managing the Thailand - Cambodia border situation through strengthened ASEAN Observer Team (AOT) mechanisms. In this regard, the Foreign Minister welcomed the EU’s support for humanitarian demining, as well as cooperation in combating online scams at both regional and global levels.