Thailand and U.S. Congressional Delegation Strengthen Ties, Address Regional Security
Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai welcomed a U.S. congressional delegation at Government House in Bangkok during their visit under the Congressional Study Program on Thailand 2025.
The delegation included Representatives Beth Van Duyne and Richard McCormick of the Republican Party, along with Representatives Terri Sewell and Suhas Subramanyam of the Democratic Party. Senior Thai officials in attendance were Deputy Defense Minister Gen. Nattaphon Narkphanit, Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs Russ Jalichandra, National Security Council Secretary-General Chatchai Bangchuad, and Thailand’s Ambassador to the U.S., Suriya Chindawongse.
Talks centered on strengthening bilateral relations and addressing regional security issues. Mr. Phumtham emphasized Thailand’s commitment to deepening its strategic partnership with the United States, noting opportunities for enhanced collaboration in the digital economy and energy development.
He expressed gratitude for U.S. support in the recent ceasefire declaration between Thailand and Cambodia, reaffirming Thailand’s dedication to resolving border tensions peacefully. Thailand and Cambodia are set to attend the General Border Committee (GBC) meeting on 10 September, with the U.S. expected to continue its role as an observer. The Acting Prime Minister voiced confidence that backing from both the U.S. and ASEAN would help stabilize the situation.
On 26 August, the U.S. delegation will travel to Ubon Ratchathani Province to directly assess the border conflict. Despite the ceasefire, Cambodia has reportedly continued to deploy landmines on Thai territory, injuring Thai soldiers—actions Thailand condemns as violations of its sovereignty, humanitarian law, and the Ottawa Convention.
Additionally, Thailand and the U.S. will participate in the annual Chiefs of Defense Conference from 26–28 August in Hua Hin, jointly organized by the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command and the Royal Thai Armed Forces, underscoring the enduring security partnership between the two nations.
