Singapore PM congratulates new Thai premier Paetongtarn Shinawatra

SINGAPORE: Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said he is certain that Thailand will continue to progress and prosper under the leadership of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra.

Wong, in a letter on Tuesday (Aug 20), congratulated Paetongtarn on her appointment as Thailand’s prime minister, and said both countries enjoyed strong ties.

He said: “Singapore and Thailand share longstanding and multi-faceted relations, underpinned by robust economic ties, strong defence cooperation, and regular political and people-to-people exchanges.

“This strong partnership was built by successive generations of leaders and has grown in scope over the years.”

Paetongtarn, 37, was elected by lawmakers on Aug 16 to become the country’s youngest prime minister.

Wong said the two countries are continuing to explore new areas of collaboration, including in clean energy, sustainability and the digital economy.

He said: “As like-minded partners and neighbours, Singapore and Thailand also work together closely at multilateral fora, including in Asean.

“I am confident that the friendship between Singapore and Thailand will continue to strengthen and blossom in the years ahead.”

Paetongtarn, the daughter of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, was elected to the top job after the dismissal of Srettha Thavisin over the wrongful appointment of a Cabinet minister.

Wong said he is looking forward to working with Paetongtarn to further deepen bilateral relations between Singapore and Thailand as the countries mark 60 years of diplomatic relations in 2025.

He extended an invitation for Paetongtarn and her husband Pitaka Suksawat to visit Singapore “at the earliest opportunity”.

Wong said: “I also hope to make my introductory visit to Thailand at the soonest. Until then, I look forward to meeting you at the upcoming Asean summit in Vientiane in October.

“I wish you every success as you begin your new term.” – The Straits Times/ANN