Thailand Reaffirms One China Policy Amid Taiwan Tensions

BANGKOK — Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul on Thursday reaffirmed Thailand's longstanding support for the One China policy, saying he does not expect Taiwan's criticism of Bangkok's stance to affect cooperation between Thailand and Taiwan.

Speaking at Government House, Anutin responded to a statement from Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressing disappointment after Thailand endorsed language stating that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China.

"Thailand has always adhered to the One China policy. This is nothing new," Anutin said.

He added that Thailand remains open to cooperation in areas that do not conflict with its diplomatic position and stressed that Bangkok has not sought to restrict any form of cooperation.

Regarding Taiwan's expression of disappointment, Anutin said Thailand acknowledged the statement but maintained that its policy is clear.

"That is Taiwan's position, and we have taken note of it. Thailand's policy is clear, and I do not believe this will have any impact," he said.

When asked whether additional diplomatic efforts were needed to ease tensions, Anutin replied that both sides already understood each other.

Pressed on whether Taiwan might view Thailand as favoring Beijing, the prime minister smiled and said, "Our policy is One China. There is no leaning."

He declined to comment on reactions circulating on social media.

Asked whether the dispute could affect visa-free travel for Thai visitors to Taiwan or the large number of Thai workers employed there, Anutin again stressed that Thailand's position remained unchanged.

"Our policy is clear," he said.

The remarks come after Taiwan's foreign ministry criticized Thailand for endorsing language supporting Beijing's claim that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China, following recent high-level exchanges between Thai and Chinese officials.