Bangkok: Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, embarked on a pivotal international trip, first traveling to Tokyo, Japan, to lead a crucial Team Thailand meeting, before heading to New York City, USA, to participate in the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 81). This trip is part of a broader effort to bolster Thailand's international cooperation in trade, investment, and digitalization.
According to Thai News Agency, Prime Minister Anutin and his delegation took off from Military Airport 2, Wing 6, on a special flight to Tokyo Haneda International Airport. The trip to Tokyo is scheduled from September 20-21, 2026, during which Anutin will oversee a meeting on the progress of Thailand's representative agencies in Japan. This is a precursor to his attendance at the UNGA 81 from September 21-24, 2026, in New York City. Following New York, the Prime Minister will visit London from September 25-26, 2026, aiming to expand international cooperation and promote opportunities in trade, investment, and the digital economy for Thailand.
The delegation accompanying Anutin includes notable figures such as Mr. Sihasak Phuangketkaew, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs; Mrs. Supajee Suthamphan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce; Mr. Chaiyanok Chidchob, Minister of Digital Economy and Society; Mr. Paiboon Nalintrungkur, Chairman of the Thai Capital Market Business Council; and Mr. Assadej Kongsiri, Director and President of the Stock Exchange of Thailand. Upon arrival in Tokyo, the group will be welcomed by Mr. Takahiro Sugiki, Assistant Director of the Southeast Asia Division 1, Bureau of Southeast Asia and Southwest Asia Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, who will serve as the liaison officer for the Prime Minister.
On September 21, 2026, Anutin will chair the Team Thailand meeting at the Imperial Tokyo Hotel. Later that day, he will depart for New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport to commence his participation in the UNGA 81 summit. Anutin has articulated the importance of ongoing negotiations with the US regarding tariffs, emphasizing that while Thailand has secured favorable tariff rates, additional negotiations are necessary. Deputy Prime Minister Supajee Suthamphan has expressed confidence in finalizing the deal without altering the terms, even suggesting the possibility of discussions with US President Trump if the chance arises.
In an interview concerning US tariff negotiations, Anutin clarified that while he is not dictating the agenda, there is a possibility of engaging with President Trump, depending on the circumstances. He highlighted that negotiations are progressing as anticipated, though an additional issue raised by the US requires attention. Anutin reiterated his approach of "playing it by ear," given that the negotiation principles are already established.
Anutin also addressed the question of maintaining tariffs at 19 percent, suggesting that efforts would be made to minimize them. He assured that the negotiation process is balanced, with both sides working towards a mutually beneficial agreement. Anutin emphasized the importance of negotiation as a two-way street, acknowledging that neither party can have all their demands met.
The Prime Minister stated that if given the opportunity to meet with President Trump, he would discuss and follow up on agreements made in the Joint Statement between Thailand and Cambodia. However, he noted that the primary purpose of his visit is to attend the UNGA 81, underscoring the multifaceted nature of the trip, which involves engaging with multiple countries and international bodies.