PM in France

Chatrudee Theparat

French President Emmanuel Macron has confirmed his support for Thailand push in waiving visa to enter the Schengen zone for Thai ordinary passport holders.

Mr Srettha gave an interview after meeting with Mr Macron. He said Mr Macron reaffirmed his continued support for such an effort of Thailand. It may be able to proceed in August after the European Council elections this June 2024.

For tourism, the number of tourists between two countries still has not reached the pre- COVID level. Both countries agreed to jointly support the rising flight frequencies and seat capacity between two countries in order to promote intra-tourism.

He said Mr Macron also invited Thailand to participate in a conference on AI, which France will host in 2025.

The next step of the close ties between the two is to organise the Thailand - France Business Forum in Thailand this September.

“President Macron revealed that he has a good relationship with Prime Minister of Cambodia, Hun Manet therefore I proposed to form a group of three so that we can talk and discuss comfortably. “ Just just 3-4 hours of talks, but it was considered a very useful discussion.”

He said the Thailand - France Business Forum got successful. It is considered a worthwhile use of time and it was a beautiful ending of the mission in France.

Regarding the Hamas - Israel conflict, the French president is ready to support a temporary ceasefire.

“President Macron has an idea to take the opportunity of France hosting the Summer Olympic Games Paris 2024 between July 26 - August 11, 2024. During the Olympic Games is considered an important time for temporary ceasefire. He believes sports are a tool to forget conflict. He also asked Thailand to join in supporting to express their intention to call for a ceasefire during the Summer Olympics.”

On Myanmar issues, there was discussion on progress which the prime minister assigned Minister of Foreign Affairs Maris Sangiampongsa
to take such a role. Especially, he discussed Thailand role in supporting negotiations to achieve peace and unity in Myanmar. The French resident is ready to support such a role.