Bangkok: Academics, journalists, and Thai-Chinese businesspeople indicate that Thai-Chinese relations are moving into a new dimension. According to Thai News Agency, academics from Thai and Chinese think tanks, along with media representatives and business leaders, unanimously agree that cultural exchange, as well as the roles of the media, government, private sector, and youth, are crucial for strengthening Thai-Chinese relations in the new era amidst emerging challenges.
On Sunday, September 13, 2026, the Faculty of Social Sciences, Kasetsart University, Thailand, and the Beijing Institute for Contemporary China and the World, People's Republic of China, hosted a Thai-Chinese cultural exchange seminar in Bangkok. The event was co-organized by the Center for International Communication in South and Southeast Asia, under the supervision of Yunnan Daily Group and MCOT Public Company Limited (Thailand News Agency). Participants from various sectors shared research findings and exchanged perspectives on cooperation between Thailand and China under themes like 'No Barriers - No Walls' and 'No Limits - No Obstacles.' The goal was to identify common solutions to strengthen cooperation in economics and technological innovation while fostering deeper understanding.
During the seminar, Rear Admiral Worawit Techasupakorn highlighted the enduring relationship between Thailand and China, which celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2025. Despite global uncertainties, the Thai government is advancing its international trade policy through a co-creation model, transitioning from "trading partners" to "trade allies" to create mutual growth and value.
Tian Jing, editor-in-chief of the Yunnan Daily Group, emphasized the media's role in bridging cultural gaps by presenting accurate information and insights into local lifestyles and cultures. This approach is seen as vital for fostering greater understanding between the two nations.
Representatives from the Mekong Sub-region Tourism Coordination Office noted that current tourism trends emphasize local culture and lifestyles over mere tourist attractions. Sustainable tourism development, they argued, relies on integrating local narratives and traditions with tourist destinations to provide tourists with meaningful experiences.
Mr. Li Jinglei, Vice President of Focus Media (Thailand) Co., Ltd., echoed the importance of mutual understanding between Thai and Chinese entrepreneurs for successful business ventures. He noted that effective communication and adapting to the local context are key to sustainable growth and collaboration, rather than changing cultural identities.