Chargé d’Affaires of the Royal Thai Embassy in South Africa, Paisit Boonparlit, stated that bilateral ties between Thailand and South Africa have been strengthened at a critical time of global change, reports
The Diplomatic Society.

Boonparlit emphasised the rising significance of multilateral cooperation between ASEAN and the African Union, noting a shared commitment to economic integration and inclusive development.

“Now, with South Africa and Thailand both part of the expanded BRICS+ architecture, we are entering a new phase of multipolar diplomacy,” he stated, underlining the strategic potential of this alignment in the context of a changing world order.

The diplomat pointed to practical achievements in bilateral ties, especially in the automotive and healthcare sectors. He also highlighted Thailand’s readiness to share experience in public health and universal healthcare access, aligning with South Africa’s National Health Insurance efforts.

In addition, Boonparlit championed people-to-people diplomacy through education, skill development, and cultural exchange. He noted the rising popularity of Thai cultural exports, particularly Muaythai, as tools for youth development and intercultural understanding.

According to Paisit Boonparlit, visa facilitation remains a priority for both countries to simplify processes that promote tourism, academic exchanges and trade.

He also highlighted the growing strategic relevance of Thai–South African relations within the Global South and BRICS+, offering a vision of future cooperation rooted in mutual respect, shared values, and collaborative development.

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