France has affirmed its full support for Thailand's bid to join the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) during a meeting between French Ambassador Jean-Claude Poimboeuf and Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul.
During a courtesy call on Mr Anutin to mark the completion of his posting, Mr Poimboeuf said France fully supports Thailand's application for OECD membership.
The French ambassador also praised the Thai government's efforts to improve laws and make upgrades to meet OECD requirements.
He expressed confidence that membership would promote national development, strengthen investor confidence and improve the long-term quality of life of the Thai people.
Thailand plans to secure OECD membership by 2028, which is expected to help elevate its legal, regulatory and public administration standards to align with international best practices.
Mr Anutin praised Mr Poimboeuf for his contribution to strengthening Thailand-France relations during his tenure as ambassador.
The prime minister said 2026 marks a milestone in Thailand-France relations, citing his recent visit to France and the state visit by Their Majesties the King and the Queen.
The signing of the new joint action plan on Friday would serve as a foundation for elevating Thai-French relations to a strategic partnership, said Mr Anutin.
The prime minister noted that the bilateral ties have extended beyond diplomacy, trade, and investment to encompass long-term strategic cooperation in areas critical to both countries, including innovation, artificial intelligence, the digital economy, cybersecurity, the circular economy, and the energy transition.
Mr Poimboeuf said the joint action plan will serve as the framework for bilateral cooperation over the next three years, building on the existing roadmap and upgrading ties to a strategic partnership.
The plan will broaden cooperation to include areas that support sustainable development and future competitiveness, he added.
