Bangkok: Anutin Charnvirakul, the Prime Minister of Thailand, welcomed the outgoing German Ambassador, Ernst Wolfgang Reichel, at Government House, where they discussed the continuation of the Thailand-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and Thailand's aspirations for membership in the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).

According to Thai News Agency, the farewell meeting, held in the reception room on the 2nd floor of the Thai Khu Fah Building, underscored the 164-year friendship between Thailand and Germany. The Prime Minister expressed gratitude for the Ambassador's role in promoting relations and cooperation during his tenure. The atmosphere was described as warm and friendly, highlighting the close cooperation between the two nations over the years.

The discussions centered on two main issues. Firstly, the Thailand-EU FTA, where the Prime Minister shared insights from his recent visit to France. He emphasized the importance of concluding the agreement swiftly, as it would enhance trade, investment, and economic connectivity between Thailand and the EU. Both parties agreed on the potential of the FTA to open new business opportunities and strengthen Thai-German economic cooperation.

Secondly, the Prime Minister reiterated Thailand's commitment to joining the OECD, aiming to elevate development standards and improve governance. He noted that OECD membership would bolster investor confidence, competitiveness, and support long-term national development.

The meeting concluded with mutual expressions of gratitude and confidence that the strong foundation of Thai-German cooperation would continue to benefit both countries.