Wednesday, August 5, 2026

Taiwan confirms ties with Thailand remain as close as ever — visa-free extension and Thai worker protections unchanged

MGR Online: Taiwan's representative to Thailand has affirmed that the friendly relations and exchanges between Thailand and Taiwan will remain unchanged, even in the face of pressure from external circumstances.

The Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Thailand stated that Taiwan reaffirms its role as a partner committed to the rule of law, sincerity, and trustworthiness, and will continue to strengthen cooperation and friendship between the people of Taiwan and Thailand.

Mr. Peter Lan, Taiwan's representative to Thailand, confirmed that the longstanding close friendship and cooperation between Taiwan and Thailand remain firm and unchanged. The Taiwanese government recently announced an extension of the visa exemption (visa-free) measure for Thai nationals travelling to Taiwan for another year, along with its continuing stance on protecting the rights of Thai workers in Taiwan — reflecting Taiwan's sincerity in welcoming the Thai people and the importance Taiwan places on them.

The representative of the Taiwanese government stated that the people of Taiwan and Thailand are alike in their warmth, love of family, and diligence. Both sides have also demonstrated flexibility and mutual understanding in conducting their relationship amid the geopolitical context.

Teresa Teng's songs forge a bond

Cultural exchanges between Taiwan and Thailand are diverse and ongoing. Thai films, series, and world-class artists such as Lisa continue to enjoy sustained popularity and attention in Taiwan, while the films of Taiwanese director Ang Lee, as well as the timeless songs of Teresa Teng — long familiar to the Thai people — all reflect the cultural connection, affinity, and mutual appeal between Taiwan and Thailand.

In terms of economic and trade cooperation, Taiwan and Thailand have built their relationship over more than 60 years. Taiwan is currently Thailand's fourth-largest trading partner and the sixth-largest source of foreign direct investment (FDI) in Thailand. Taiwan is ready to share its knowledge and experience on the basis of mutual respect, in order to support Thailand in its journey toward becoming a semiconductor industry hub for Southeast Asia.

Regardless of how external circumstances may change, the Taiwanese government's commitment to promoting friendly relations and exchanges between Thailand and Taiwan will remain unchanged. The Taiwanese government will continue to fully protect the safety and legal rights of Thai workers in Taiwan as before, and wishes to express its gratitude to all Thai workers for their significant contribution to Taiwan's economy and development.