PM Anutin Heads to ASEAN Summit, Says Thailand's Image Transformed
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul flew to Manila for the 49th ASEAN Summit, declaring that Thailand's global image has completely reversed from a year ago. He said tourists and investors remain keen, and he is ready to negotiate trade deals and cooperation with ASEAN partners during bilateral meetings.
At 3:50 PM on November 14, 2026, at Don Mueang's Wing 6 military airport, Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul addressed his departure for the 49th ASEAN Summit and related meetings in Manila, Philippines. He said he would hold bilateral discussions with several countries, noting that 'scanning the radar' shows Thailand remains attractive to tourists and investors. Anutin added that signals today are clearly different compared to last year — a point Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Supachai Suwannaphan could confirm — describing the change as a complete turnaround. The prime minister said he feels fully prepared to represent Thailand, with concrete proposals and reasons to pursue trade deals and cooperation. Before leaving, he jokingly corrected his own 'palm and back of hand' idiom, then stressed his full commitment to benefiting the country, urging the press to 'look after the nation' and not overwhelm the acting prime minister with questions.
