Japan-Thailand Relations

On November 7, for approximately 30 minutes from 4:45 p.m., Mr. Taro Kono, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, who is visiting Da Nang, the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam, to attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Ministerial Meeting, held a foreign ministers' meeting with H.E. Mr. Don Pramudwinai, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand. The overview of the meeting is as follows.

1. First, Minister Don welcomed the opportunity to meet Minister Kono again following their meeting on the occasion of the 130th anniversary of Japan-Thailand diplomatic relations in September, congratulated Minister Kono on his reappointment, and stated that he is glad  to maintain a closer and more practical bilateral relationship in the future. In response, Minister Kono explained that he was honored  to celebrate the 130th anniversary of Japan-Thailand diplomatic relations in September together with Minister Don, and stated that he intends to further advance Japan-Thailand relations in various areas  for the purpose of developing the Mekong region.
2. Minister Kono explained that he attaches importance to Thailand's stability and development, and on the domestic affairs, he stated that he hopes the process of restoring democracy will move ahead in the run-up to next year's election. In addition, Minister Kono stated that for the development of the Dawei SEZ (special economic zone) cooperation among Japan,Thailand and Myanmar is very important, and he hopes to obtain support from Minister Don also. Additionally, with regard to the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), Minister Kono explained that he hopes to continue working closely together in order to realize a high-quality agreement. Minister Don stated that Thailand understands the importance of promoting the free trade system.   
3. With regard to regional affairs, Minister Kono noted that North Korea continues its nuclear and missile development programs, and it is important for the international community to exert greater pressure, including by implementing the relevant United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions, and he requested Thailand's ongoing understanding and cooperation. Minister Don explained that Thailand is complying strictly with UNSC resolutions concerning North Korea, and that it was taking measures beyond resolutions..
4. Minister Kono also mentioned Japan's Free and Open Indo-Pacific Strategy and explained that maritime order based on law is the key to regional stability and economic development, and along with expressing thanks for Thailand's support, he stated that he hopes to continue cooperating in  the international arena. 
5. Furthermore, the two ministers exchanged views on the situation in Rakhine State in Myanmar, and Minister Don explained his visit to Myanmar a few days ago. In addition, the two ministers confirmed the importance of holding close discussions with the Government of Myanmar in order to improve the situation, and the importance of Japan and Thailand exchanging views and cooperating on policies for supporting Myanmar.