Singapore - Thailand Relations On a Firm Footing SYNOPSIS

Thailand’s dynamic political scene is a spectacle for many, given the complex relationships among the different segments of the Thai society, especially those in business, the legal profession, the military, and politics. [...] The fact that Paetongtarn, the daughter of Thaksin Shinawatra and niece of Yingluck Shinawatra, both former premiers, has now become Prime Minister herself, will add to questions about the complex network of co-optation and dealmaking within the political establishment. [...] Despite many political changes and controversies, Thailand has continued to position itself as “open for business” with the region and the rest of the world. [...] In the aftermath of the Second World War, both states had been beneficiaries of the pan-American order and had converging perspectives on regional security. [...] While there is a notable lack of mention of how the shifting political tides within Thailand might affect bilateral relations, the heavy focus on economic cooperation underscores the practical mindsets of both sides to keep business going and their firm adherence to the long-held ASEAN principle of non-interference.