Kazakhstan and Thailand are moving toward a more practical and city-driven format of cooperation. In Bangkok, Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Thailand Margulan Baimukhan met with Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt to discuss concrete areas for expanding ties between the two countries, with a focus on cities, regions and business communities, DKNews.kz reports.
The talks went beyond formal diplomacy. Both sides emphasized the importance of building direct connections between Bangkok and the regions of Kazakhstan, opening new opportunities for joint projects and private sector engagement.
From tourism to smart city solutions
A key part of the discussion centered on cooperation in tourism, urban infrastructure, sustainable development and the implementation of smart city solutions. Logistics and the digitalization of urban services were also highlighted as promising areas for partnership.
The parties noted mutual interest in launching joint initiatives aimed at increasing investment attractiveness and supporting entrepreneurship. The idea of closer interaction between municipal authorities and business circles featured prominently in the conversation.
Kazakhstan presents reforms and development priorities
During the meeting, the Kazakh ambassador outlined the main directions of Kazakhstan’s socio-economic development. He also briefed the Thai side on the constitutional reforms initiated by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.
Margulan Baimukhan stressed Kazakhstan’s commitment to a multi-vector and pragmatic foreign policy and reaffirmed the country’s readiness to further expand comprehensive cooperation with Thailand.
Bangkok’s interest in Kazakhstan’s regions
Governor Chadchart Sittipunt expressed clear interest in intensifying contacts with Astana and other regions of Kazakhstan. He pointed to Bangkok’s role as one of Southeast Asia’s leading economic, financial and tourist hubs and emphasized the value of exchanging experience.
According to the governor, cooperation in urban governance, digitalization, artificial intelligence, sustainable development and infrastructure modernization could be especially beneficial for both sides.
Dialogue to continue
The meeting concluded with an agreement to maintain regular contacts and support the establishment of direct links between local authorities, business communities and expert circles in both countries. The sides also agreed to work on specific initiatives, including presentations of Kazakhstan’s trade, economic and investment opportunities, as well as potential mutual visits.
A global megacity in focus
Bangkok is home to around 10–11 million people, while the Greater Bangkok metropolitan area counts more than 16–17 million residents. It is not only Thailand’s main economic and cultural center, but also one of the most visited cities in the world.
In recent years, Bangkok has ranked first globally in terms of international tourist arrivals. Each year, the city welcomes around 35 million foreign visitors, reinforcing its status as a global tourism powerhouse.
Against this backdrop, Bangkok’s interest in closer cooperation with Kazakhstan highlights growing opportunities for city-level diplomacy, business partnerships and long-term development projects between the two countries.
