Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is set to arrive in China on a four-day official visit starting tomorrow, with discussions focused on strengthening cooperation against transnational scams and tackling air pollution. Her visit, which includes meetings with key Chinese leaders, comes amid growing concerns over cross-border fraud operations and environmental challenges.
Paetongtarn will depart from Bangkok in the afternoon, heading to Beijing, where she is scheduled to hold talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Premier Li Qiang, and Zhao Leji, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress. The discussions on Thursday are expected to highlight efforts to combat scam networks operating along the Thai-Myanmar border, an issue that has drawn significant public attention in recent months.
The problem gained wider recognition after Chinese actor Wang Xing was reportedly deceived by scammers into traveling to Myanmar through Thailand under the pretense of attending a TV series audition. His disappearance and subsequent rescue in Myanmar raised concerns about Thailand’s role as a transit point for fraudulent operations, resulting in a decline in Chinese tourist arrivals.
In response, China has sent representatives to Thailand twice, including Liu Zhongyi from China’s Public Security Ministry, to discuss collaborative efforts with Thai officials. Liu also traveled to Chiang Rai province and visited areas near the Thai-Myanmar border, believed to be key locations for scam operations. Speculation on Thai social media suggested Liu had criticized Thai authorities for their handling of the issue, but Thai Foreign Ministry spokesperson Nikorndej Balankura dismissed the claims, stating they were unfounded and urging an end to the spread of such rumors.
Beyond security concerns, Paetongtarn’s visit will also focus on economic ties. She is expected to meet Thai and Chinese business leaders to encourage trade and investment between the two countries. The trip coincides with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and China, marking a significant milestone in their bilateral partnership.
As part of her itinerary, Paetongtarn will travel to Harbin in northern China, where she will attend the opening ceremony of the ninth Asian Winter Games in 2025.
