Switzerland and Thailand have maintained diplomatic relations for 95 years. During the talks, both sides commended exchanges in politics, business and civil society. With more than 13'000 people, the Swiss community abroad is the largest in the Asia-Pacific region. Conversely, 30'000 Thai citizens live in Switzerland.
The free trade agreement between EFTA and Thailand was identified as an important factor in further deepening economic relations. President Parmelin and Prime Minister Charnvirakul discussed the steps leading up to the agreement’s entry into force and how to make the best possible use of the opportunities it offers. Potential was identified particularly in manufacturing and automation, digital technologies and infrastructure, and sustainable technologies.
Regarding cooperation between the two countries in tackling climate change under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, the president highlighted Switzerland’s interest in investments in Thailand to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
The two sides also discussed the challenging international situation and its impact on regional stability. They also addressed the World Trade Organization (WTO) and its reform process, the United Nations and the role of International Geneva as a leading hub of multilateral diplomacy. Finally, the president commended Thailand’s commitment to combating online scam networks. The reason for the president’s trip to Thailand is to attend the annual meeting of the Bretton Woods institutions, which is taking place «extra muros» in Bangkok in 2026 rather than in Washington D.C., where these institutions are based.
Presidential visit to Vietnam
President Parmelin will then travel on to Vietnam, where President Tô Lâm will receive him in Hanoi on Saturday, 17 October 2026, for an official presidential visit. Meetings are also planned with Prime Minister Lê Minh Hưng, National Assembly President Trần Thanh Mẫn and other members of the government. A central focus of the visit will be the signing of the free trade agreement between the EFTA states and Vietnam on 18 October. A Swiss business delegation will accompany the president in both Thailand and Vietnam.
Source
Translation of the verbatim reproduction of the press release by the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (EAER): «Die Schweiz und Thailand unterstreichen Chancen des Freihandels», published on 15 October 2026. Document: newsd:wbf_22723:de. https://www.admin.ch/de/newnsb/rmRzjkA-l3sj