On 25 June 2025, H.E. Mr. Maris Sangiampongsa, Minister of Foreign Affairs, met with H.E. Mr. Jonathan Dale Kings, Ambassador of New Zealand to Thailand, to discuss ways toward enhanced cooperation. Both sides expressed their commitment to elevating Thailand–New Zealand relations to a Strategic Partnership by 2026, coinciding with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. They agreed to pursue concrete cooperation across various sectors, with a particular emphasis on education. This includes collaboration in areas aligned with labour market demands, private sector requirements, and emerging global trends, especially in the field of artificial intelligence, where Thailand has a strong demand for skilled professionals. The two sides also discussed opportunities for knowledge exchange in sectors where New Zealand possesses recognised expertise.
 
Additionally, both parties underscored the importance of enhancing trade cooperation in light of evolving global trade dynamics. It was noted that New Zealand’s Minister for Trade and Investment and Minister of Agriculture is expected to visit Thailand later this year to further advance economic collaboration.
 
The New Zealand Ambassador reaffirmed his country’s commitment to deepening engagement with Thailand and ASEAN, and to promoting sub-regional cooperation through the Mekong River Commission (MRC) and the Mekong Institute (MI), where New Zealand has maintained an active role. The two sides also exchanged views on regional developments and broader international challenges.