On October 23, 2025, Dr. Ekniti Nitithanprapas, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, held bilateral talks with Mr. Koo Yun-cheol, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of the Republic of Korea in Incheon, Republic of Korea. The meeting was attended by Ms. Onfah Vejjajiva, Secretary-General of the National Economic and Social Development Council, Mr. Thanee Saengrat, Thai Ambassador to the Republic of Korea, along with delegations from both countries.
The discussion focused on enhancing economic cooperation and innovation development between Thailand and the Republic of Korea. Both parties exchanged views on approaches to drive digital economy and artificial intelligence (AI) technology, as well as investment in high-potential industries to strengthen long-term economic foundation and sustainability.
The discussions emphasized the role of the Republic of Korea as a model country for digital policies, particularly in the field of AI, which aligns with the Thai government’s policy aimed at developing the digital economy as a key mechanism for enhancing the country’s competitiveness. This includes areas such as digital infrastructure, citizen skill development, and the promotion of innovation and startups.
Furthermore, both parties discussed approaches to promote private sector investment, particularly in future target industries where the Republic of Korea has high potential and Thailand is ready to accommodate, such as semiconductor industry, clean energy, electric vehicles, smart healthcare systems, and AI, as well as the development of clean energy technology to increase energy efficiency, reduce economic costs, and support the transition to a low-carbon economy.
The Thai Deputy Prime Minister invited South Korean private sector to expand investment in Thailand, particularly in energy, technology, and innovation sectors through Public-Private Partnership (PPP) mechanisms. He emphasized that the Thai government has designated 2026 as “Thailand’s Year of Investment” to build a stable and sustainable economic foundation and drive the country toward quality growth. He also invited Deputy Prime Minister Koo Yun-cheol to attend the Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund and World Bank Group, which Thailand will host in 2026, as a platform for exchanging global economic perspectives and strengthening international financial cooperation.
