Trade with China was extensive back in the days when the Chinese economy was dominant, Thirachai pointed out, adding that this fell off after Thailand aligned itself with the US after World War II. Now that China’s global influence has grown significantly. Thailand must adjust its foreign relations strategy, lessening dependence on the USA but being cautious to avoid problems with the long-standing US relationship.
Factors contributing to the BRICs’ strong negotiating position include diverse product manufacturing and ample raw materials such as oil, agricultural goods, and minerals. It is therefore suggested that Thailand should closely align itself with this group without fully siding with any party, to avoid alienating the US.
This will be particularly important given that at its just-concluded summit in Johannesburg, BRICS issued an invitation to Saudi Arabia and the United…
