Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul arrives in Shanghai for WAIC 2026
When a leader of a country actively developing its digital economy arrives in the world's technology hub, it is not merely a protocol visit but a signal of readiness to jointly seek solutions in an era of technological transformation. The AI cooperation between Thailand and China, formalised in a 2025 memorandum, extends beyond bilateral relations — it becomes part of a global dialogue on how to make artificial intelligence a tool for development accessible to all.
On Thursday, Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul arrived in Shanghai for an official visit to China, during which he will take part in the 2026 World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) and the High‑Level Meeting on Global AI Governance. This is Anutin's first official visit to China since taking office as prime minister. In 2025, China and Thailand signed a memorandum of understanding to deepen cooperation in artificial intelligence (AI), aimed at strengthening collaboration in AI development and governance, and promoting AI technologies for the benefit of the peoples of both countries.
Thailand is one of Southeast Asia's leaders in digital transformation, actively integrating AI technologies into tourism, agriculture and healthcare. The 2025 memorandum with China provides for experience exchange, joint research and AI talent development. Anutin's participation in WAIC underscores the strategic nature of the cooperation and the growing interest in China's global AI governance initiatives. As CCTV+ reports. Bilateral talks are expected to take place during the visit, which will expand technological partnership and open new opportunities for joint projects.
