Thailand Should Remain Neutral on AI, Deputy PM Says

At a briefing on August 17 at Government House, Deputy Prime Minister and Higher Education Minister Yossanan Wongsuwan addressed the U.S. plan to ask allied nations to take sides in the artificial intelligence competition with China. He noted that AI encompasses multiple sectors, including semiconductors, which have been discussed among allied nations. Following recent AI discussions in China at the World Internet Conference, Thailand may need to participate but must carefully consider its approach. For maximum advantage, Yossanan argued, Thailand must position itself as a neutral nation and will consult with Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkhao on how to navigate this geopolitical challenge.

When asked whether taking sides is necessary, Yossanan said Thailand must first strengthen its own technological and scientific foundations, which he has been developing over the past two to three months through discussions with France, Japan, and South Korea. He emphasized that Thailand should not focus on choosing sides but rather on building core capabilities that provide independence. Even if rejected in some areas, he said, a strong foundation allows the country to function autonomously.

Yossanan stressed that artificial intelligence relies on underlying infrastructure including data, cybersecurity, and hardware. With a robust domestic database, Thailand can make informed decisions about which AI partnerships serve its interests. He called for serious investment in foundational technologies, not just AI alone, and said both government and private sector participation through the Public-Private Sector Committee for Economic Reform is essential. The strategy, he concluded, should prioritize Thailand's own strengths and capabilities rather than fear-driven alignment with any major power.