Over the next 40 years, Thai-China relations must be more comprehensive, taking into consideration the fast changing economic and security landscape in the region. As such, it is important to include key areas of strategic interest on both sides as the bilateral relations are still lopsided and heavily focused on economic, trade, investment, cultural and language cooperation.
In the process, Thailand must articulate well what the country wants from China and act accordingly. Since there is no such thing as a free lunch anymore, Thailand also has to reciprocate in ways that ensure mutually beneficial partnerships. China will be featured one way or another in the regional and international scheme of things.
In a few days, Thailand and China will commemorate 40 years of friendship. We must use this occasion to think outside the box and set sail ahead when the headwinds still favour our way.