BANGKOK, April 22 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra have reaffirmed their shared commitment to tackling United States tariffs through a unified ASEAN framework, emphasizing fair and sustainable negotiations. During Anwar’s two-day working visit to Thailand, both leaders discussed regional trade concerns and pledged to act collectively within ASEAN, acknowledging the bloc’s potential if member states move in unison.
Anwar also praised Thailand’s dedication to advancing bilateral agreements aimed at stimulating economic growth, especially in northern Malaysia and southern Thailand. In addition to addressing US tariffs, Anwar and Paetongtarn witnessed the signing of a construction agreement for the Rantau Panjang-Sungai Golok Bridge — a key infrastructure project to boost cross-border connectivity.
Paetongtarn highlighted progress on the bridge and reiterated Thailand’s focus on peace and development in its southern provinces, seeking Malaysia’s cooperation in transforming conflict zones into hubs for trade through projects like halal food production and the Rubber City initiative. With bilateral trade surpassing US$25 billion last year, both leaders aim to hit a US$30 billion trade target by 2027.
