On 8 May 2023, H.E. Lada Phumas, Ambassador, received VAdm Charatkiat Chaiphan, Commander, 2nd Naval Area Command and Royal Thai Navy delegation, at the Royal Thai Embassy in Kuala Lumpur, on the occasion of VAdm Charatkiat’s visit to Malaysia to co-chair the 78th Malaysia - Thailand Combined Marine Working Group (CMWG) meeting on 10 May 2023 in Kuantan, Pahang, with Royal Malaysian Navy’s Naval Area 1 Western Commander.

           H.E. Lada reiterated the importance of security cooperation frameworks as an essential relations-driven mechanism which includes the meeting of the CMWG under the framework of RBC, one of the annual events that fosters better understanding and networks essential for neighboring countries. Therefore, it is hoped that joint activities will be carried out regularly, including the SEAEX - Thamal exercise. Moreover, H.E. Lada is also scheduled to attend the LIMA 2023 Aviation Exhibition and Aviation Exhibition in Langkawi Island, whereby the Royal Thai Navy will send the HTMS Prachuap Khiri Khan to participate in the naval parade.

           Beside defense cooperation, the scope of Thailand and Malaysia relations encompasses extensive areas of cooperation, including economy, trade, investment, connectivity development along the Thai-Malaysian border, human resource development, agriculture and fisheries, social and culture, as well as cooperation in new areas such as cybersecurity. H.E. Lada will ensure the continuity of the bilateral meetings, especially, the Joint Commission on Thailand - Malaysia Bilateral Cooperation (JC), the Joint Development Strategic Committee Meeting for the Thailand - Malaysia Border Area (JDS), as well as the 7th Annual Consultation at the Prime Minister's level, which Malaysia is scheduled to host, along with Prime Minister's official visit to further strengthen bilateral relations.

           The discussion was smooth and in a cordial ambience. H.E. Lada stands ready to support various missions of the Royal Thai Navy, she also expressed appreciation for the Office of the Naval Attaché’s close cooperation with the Royal Thai Embassy.