Thailand to New Zealand | Bilateral Relationship

[Basedcnt]

Minister Goff would gladly welcome the delegation once they had entered the NZICC. He would invite them to explore the third level while he conferred with other New Zealanders.

Minister Goff would be notified once the Thai delegation had left the third and were moving to the fifth floor, and he would take the next lift after them.

A small amount of polite applause would accompany Director Pitsuwan every time he would pause in his speech. At the end, he would recieve a large and longer applause, and Minister Goff would give a short speech.

"I thank the Thai delegation for their time today. Developing strong international relations has been on the forefront of the new New Zealand government's agenda. New Zealand's sustainable power industry is a testament to the knowledge behind the Director's words. Trade between Thailand and New Zealand is an extremely pressing issue, which again shows how important events like these are. Thank you, and enjoy the conference." The Minister would walk off stage to applause. He would approach the Director, and ask him if he was willing to talk to some New Zealand media for 5 or so minutes.

Bossza007

 

[Bossza007]

Director-General Surin stood respectfully from a distance during Minister Goff’s speech. After his counterpart finished and he approached him, Surin said, “Of course, Minister Goff.”

basedcnt​

 

[Basedcnt]

A New Zealand Herald, Radio NZ, Stuff NZ and TVNZ journalist, plus a 1News TV crew, would be waiting in an adjoining room. Once hearing Director Surin's response, Minister Goff would smile and say, "Excellent! Follow me, there is a small group of journalists and news people in the room across there."

Minister Goff would walk into the room, and greet the journalists from the small, slightly-raised podium. "Good afternoon, ladies, gentlemen. May I present Director Surin." Goff would walk off the podium and stand off to one side.

Once Director Surin had moved to the podium, the New Zealand Herald would start off by asking, "What has caused Thailand's recent - as called by the Bangkok Post - encirclment of Australia? And what has New Zealand got to do with it, apart from obvious geographical considerations?"

Bossza007

 

[Bossza007]

Director-General Surin smiled at New Zealand Minister Goff as the man led him to the adjoining room where the press was gathered. After Minister Goff's introduction, a journalist from the New Zealand Herald approached Surin with a question. Surin responded with an approachable yet composed demeanor.

“Thank you for your question regarding the ongoing diplomatic tension between Thailand and Australia. The Republic Government is aware of the article published by the Bangkok Post, a worker-cooperative enterprise in Thailand, which has gained widespread attention. Thailand has raised diplomatic concerns with the Australian Foreign Ministry regarding their violation of Thai sovereignty, specifically in their diplomatic correspondence. The Republic Government acknowledges that the naval visit by the Naval Expeditionary Group Four to New Zealand may have raised concerns in some media outlets. However, it is important to recognize that the NEG4 task force is part of Operation Blue Canvas, a publicly organized and consulted humanitarian mission by the Republic Navy to facilitate freedom of navigation and free trade in the Asia-Pacific.” He paused before continuing.

“Moreover, on behalf of the Republic Government, I must reject the characterization of our naval visit as an encirclement of Australia. This interpretation goes against the three pillars of our foreign policy established by the founding figures of our Republic. Thailand believes that no matter how severe the diplomatic misstep by other countries, such as Australia, diplomatic approaches must always be prioritized to ensure a secure, stable, and peaceful international order. Thank you again for your question.” Surin smiled.

basedcnt​

 

[Basedcnt]

"Thank you, Mr Surin." The reporter would sit down. A TVNZ journalist would stand, and ask, "What can you tell us about any economic deals or activities between New Zealand and Thailand? Follow-on: if that is the case, how do you see it impacting relations?" She would then sit down.

Once Director Surin had answered the question, the Radio NZ journalist would stand and ask, "What are Thailand's larger strategic goals, and how does New Zealand fit in with that?" He would then sit down.

After Director Surin had responded to the question, the 1News TV presenter would stand, and the camera - already trained on the Director - would be refocused. She would ask, "Are there any further plans for military exercises with New Zealand, or Thai deployments to New Zealand? Also, do you have any comment regarding the Thai and international actions in New Caledonia?"

At this point, Minister Goff would step in and say, "Ladies and gentlemen, this press brief should be relevant to mutual New Zealand and Thai issues and actions, that last query is getting off of subject. You may, Director, answer it if you so please, but I remind you that you are under no obligation to do so," with that Minister Goff would take his seat, looking slightly crossed.

Finally, after the Director had responded, the Stuff NZ 'journalist' would stand and ask, "How have you and your delegation been enjoying New Zealand? Do you see the prospect of mutual tourism agreements a likelyhood in the near future?" The 'journalist' would sit down.

Bossza007

 

[Bossza007]

Secret and secure unless contextual possible.​

Surin nodded respectfully as the next journalist posed a question. Addressing a TVNZ journalist, he said, "This afternoon, I will sign a comprehensive strategic partnership treaty with Foreign Minister Goff. Thailand and New Zealand will establish a formal framework for economic cooperation across various domains. We are envisioning a Joint Trade and Investment Commission that will hold regular meetings to review trade and investment trends. Both countries will negotiate a fair and equitable bilateral trade agreement to facilitate the exchange of goods, services, and investments on mutually beneficial terms. This commission will also foster collaboration on economic development projects aimed at promoting sustainable growth, job creation, and poverty alleviation. Key sectors such as infrastructure, agriculture, energy, and technology will be prioritized to enhance productivity, competitiveness, and inclusive growth. Additionally, we will establish a Financial Cooperation Working Group with representatives from relevant financial authorities and institutions. This group will promote information sharing on banking regulations, taxation policies, fiscal reforms, and other financial issues of mutual interest. Ultimately, Thailand and New Zealand will explore opportunities to coordinate our monetary policies and exchange rate arrangements to enhance macroeconomic stability and promote sustainable growth in the region. Thank you."

Responding to the Radio NZ journalist, Surin said, "Thailand's larger, long-term strategic goal is to promote democratic socialism worldwide and to transition to a system that replaces the liberal international order with a socialist one based on socialist democracy, economic democracy, and global worker solidarity. As for New Zealand's role in this vision, Thailand believes it is up to the working people of New Zealand to decide democratically whether to remain in the current order or champion a new one. Thank you."

Responding to the presenter from 1New TV, Surin said, "If the Government of New Zealand deems it appropriate, yes. The Republic Navy maintains a constant presence in the Asia-Pacific to ensure freedom of navigation and support global free trade. In emergencies, Thailand may request access to our allies' naval facilities to reinforce our robust supply chains. As for future military exercises, it is highly likely our armed forces will engage in joint activities soon. Security and defense cooperation are part of our strategic partnership treaty, coordinated by the Joint Defense Coordination Committee."

He paused briefly as the presenter asked about New Caledonia. "There is currently an insurgency and terrorist activities on the French Pacific territory of New Caledonia. Thailand is leading a humanitarian mission on the island, which will continue until French forces arrive to address the insurrection. Thanks to the intelligence efforts of the international coalition, we are analyzing critical information regarding the rebellious movement."

When New Zealand Minister Goff interjected, Surin replied, "Everything is fine, Mr. Goff. The press has the freedom, as guaranteed by international laws, to inquire about any topics they wish. While we might apply certain regulations, no international law on human rights and press freedom requires the press to comply with such regulations." He smiled respectfully, his tone calm and assured.

When the Stuff NZ journalist asked him, Surin responded, "I'll take this as the last question since we're nearing the five-minute mark." He paused briefly. "Everything in New Zealand, from Auckland to Wellington, has given me joyful memories so far. As we enter into a strategic partnership, Thailand and New Zealand will launch the People-to-People Contacts Initiative to foster greater interaction and connectivity through tourism, sports, and cultural events. We're envisioning a Joint Sport Commission to promote collaboration in sporting events, tournaments, and competitions among our athletes and sports organizations. Thank you."

basedcnt​

 

[Basedcnt]

At that, Minister Goff would stand and thank the reporters for coming, while slightly glaring at the 1News presenter. As they were walking out, Goff would say to the Director, "There are rules to protect them, yes, but they know that there will be other times for questions such as those, not in a trade-related enviroment. Either way, its good to hear you have had a good time so far." His tone and demeanor would pick up at those last words.

Once back on the third floor, he would ask the Thai delegation as a whole, "Is there anything else anyone wants to do before we fly back to Wellington for the night?"

Bossza007

 

[Bossza007]

Secret and secure unless contextual possible.​

As they walked out of the press conference room, Surin responded to Minister Goff’s remark. "Maybe, or maybe not.” He paused. “How could I not enjoy New Zealand? Despite some economic and living condition issues that your government is proactively tackling, the atmosphere here is a refreshing change from Thailand. I'm very much looking forward to the cultural event in Wellington tomorrow morning before we sign the treaty. I’m already planning a vacation here." Surin laughed, continuing to follow Minister Goff.

basedcnt​

 

[Basedcnt]

Once back on the third floor, he would ask the Thai delegation as a whole, "Is there anything else anyone wants to do before we fly back to Wellington for the night?"

If no-one says yes, and all are happy to go back to Wellington, they would drive to RNZAF Base Auckland and board a Royal New Zealand Air Force Boeing 757, which had come up from Wellington an hour before.

The group would then be flown back to Wellington, and then driven back to Boulcott Suites, where they would stay the night.

Bossza007

 

[Bossza007]

Secret and secure unless contextually possible. | NSST 1.0 Architecture​

As the Thai delegations happily flew back to Wellington, they followed the New Zealand staff's instructions. After resting at the designated hotel, they awaited further guidance from the New Zealand Government.

basedcnt​

 

[Basedcnt]

The next morning, the Thai delegation would be invited down for breakfast at 8:30. Unfortunately, Minister Goff would not be present for the morning. After breakfast, they would leave for the cultural event at the Te Papa Museum, in the South of Wellington. Once there, the Thai diplomats would be welcomed by a Maori welcome dance, called a haka. They would then be given a chance to look throughout the museum, which had been closed for a few hours to ensure security and privacy for the Thai diplomats. On display would be a wide variety of beautiful and historical artefacts, including Maori carvings, Gallipoli memoirs, refugee stories, Phar Lap, and a colossal squid. Afterwards, at around 12:30 to 1 o’clock, Minister Goff would arrive. Subsequently, they would be given traditional Thai and Maori dishes for lunch. There would be foods such as Thai beef salad, Maori Karaka berries and Karengo, a type of New Zealand seaweed. Minister Goff would discuss relations, business and his life and personal circumstances, and any other topics raised by the members of the Thai delegation. Afterwards, they would have an opportunity to ask questions of some Maori and New Zealand history experts, and to some of the men and women who performed the haka. Some modern raranga art would be presented to each member of the delegation by the museum’s director.

Once the Thai delegation was happy to do so, they would be driven to the Beehive for the signing of the strategic partnership treaty.

Bossza007

 

[Bossza007]

Secret and secure unless contextually possible. | NSST 1.0 Architecture​

The Thai delegation was warmly welcomed by the New Zealand Government as they visited the Te Papa Museum for a cultural event. They were captivated by the Maori welcome dance, a powerful display of New Zealand’s rich heritage. The delegation took their time exploring the museum's architecture and exhibitions. After a pleasant lunch with Minister Goff, they continued to immerse themselves in New Zealand’s culture before being escorted to the Beehive.

Basedcnt​

 

[Basedcnt]

The Thai delegation would be driven to the Beehive's VIP entrance. Once there, they would enter a lift to the third floor, where they would be guided to a large conference room. Inside, there would be Prime Minister Helen Clark and 2 aides sitting in chairs off on a wall. Once they had entered, Minister Goff would introduce Prime Minister Clark to each member of the Thai delegation, and she would shake their hand and greet them individually. Once all had been seated, she would say, "Thank you all for being prompt. I hope you enjoyed your walk-through of the Te Papa musuem." She would take a sip of water from the glass in front of her seat, situated at the head of the table. Minister Goff would take his seat next to her, and would say,"To get straight to the point; Helen and I have reviewed the strategic partnership treaty, and she has endorsed my position on its signing. Therefore, I am more than happy to sign it now." At that, he would sign 4 individual copies of the Thai-NZ Strategic Partnership document, and would hand 2 of them to Director-General Pitsuwan. The Prime Minister and the 2 NZ aides in the room would act as witnesses.

Bossza007

 

[Bossza007]

Surin, along with the rest of the Thai delegation, greeted New Zealand’s Prime Minister, Helen Clark, with a warm handshake—neither too soft nor too firm. “It’s an honor to meet you, Prime Minister Clark. Many Thai women dream of holding the same office one day. Despite our progress on gender equality, we’ve yet to see a female Prime Minister. It’s truly a privilege to be here,” he said with a smile before taking his seat. He continued, “We thoroughly enjoyed our visit to the Te Papa Museum. It has only strengthened our delegation's confidence in the upcoming cultural exchange programs.” He smiled again, giving way to Minister Goff as he addressed the treaty decision.

As Goff finished, the Thai delegation’s faces lit up, their relief palpable. Surin broke the silence as copies of the treaty were handed out. “This is a significant step forward for our bilateral relations, Minister, Prime Minister.” He raised his pen. “From this day forward, as agreed upon by both nations, I declare the beginning of a new era of partnership between Thailand and New Zealand.” With that, he signed his name, and the Thai delegation responded with enthusiastic applause.

Basedcnt​

Strategic Partnership Treaty between
The Republic of Thailand and the Commonwealt of New Zealand​

​

 

[Basedcnt]

The kiwis in the room would join in with polite applause before Minister Goff would stand. "Thank you for recieving us, Madam Prime Minister." Then to the Thai delegation, "I will have someone give you a short tour of the Beehive, as we are a bit early and the media are expecting us in" - he would check his watch - "about 10 minutes." He would finish with a smile. He would ask one of the aides to get one of the tour guides that were operating that day. Once the elderly tour guide arrives, she would greet the Thai diplomats and give them a tour of the second and third floor, before making their way back to the meeting room (where the SPT was signed) for the press. Many media organisations had representatives and journalists waiting in an adjoining room. Once the Thais were in the conference room, Minister Goff would ask Director Pitsuwan, "Are you ready?"

Bossza007

 

[Bossza007]

After observing the daily operations of New Zealand's parliament, the Thai delegation made their way to the press conference room. Surin turned to Minister Goff and simply said, "Yes, we are ready."

Basedcnt

 

[Basedcnt]

Polish (ManBear ), American (Odinson ), Thai (Bossza007 ), Australian (Owen ), British (Jamie ) and Russian (Jay ) news agencies would be invited to ask questions of the Thai and New Zealand representatives. As such, any foreign journalists and their New Zealand counterparts would be in a large press brief room. Once Director Pitsuwan and Minister Goff would walk out through the doors, they would be standing behind two podiums, the New Zealand and Thai flag hanging above them. There would be an audible chatter, and once the Minister of Foreign Affairs would step up to his podium, the talk would gradually die off. Minister Goff would then lean toward the microphone and say, "The New Zealand Government would like to announce the signing of the Strategic Partnership Treaty between Thailand and New Zealand. This is a monumental occasion for us all." He would turn to the Director, who would say a few words before Minister Goff would allow questions to be asked, from the foreign press first.

Bossza007

 

[Jay]

Maxim Kirillovich Grushanin from the Russian News Agency Izvestia would raise his hand after and once called upon would ask the following question.

"Thank You." He said with a nod to the person who handed him a microphone. "Your Excellencies my name is Maxim Grushanin with Izvestia. I have two questions and I hope that Minister Goff can address them.

"Minister Goff, could you elaborate on the specific economic and military aspects of the Strategic Partnership Treaty between Thailand and New Zealand? Are there any military or strategic collaborations that could impact the broader geopolitical landscape, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region? As you are aware Thailand and Australia have cut diplomatic ties following a geopolitical rift. Australia is an important and historic ally of New Zealand, would you say this is a pivot by your government to align with Bangkok over Canberra?"

Secondly, can you provide details on how this treaty will affect trade and investment between Thailand and New Zealand? Are there any new sectors or industries where significant collaborations or investments are expected?""

"For Director Pitsuwan how does this treaty influence regional security dynamics in Southeast Asia and the Pacific? There are concerns about the increased presence and influence of Thailand in Oceania. Do you believe there are legitimate concerns about Thailand's activities or do you think that those concerns are illegitimate?"

---

Natasha Andreevna Tatarova from the Russian News Agency RIA Novosti would raise her hand after Maxim and once called upon would ask the following question.

"Thank You. Your Excellencies Natasha Tatarova with RIA Novosti, Russia." She said as she looked down at her notes before asking her question. "There are concerns about the transparency regarding this significant economic and security pact between Thailand and New Zealand. Will the full agreement be released to the public or will portions of the agreement be kept classified from public viewing.

Secondly, I'd like to ask if you can build up on your response to my colleague Maksa from Izvestia, there are concerns that Thailand has become a rogue actor. For Minister Goff, does New Zealand agree with that assessment, and if not, have you spoken with traditional New Zealand allies Australia and the United States who have had political fallout with Thailand in recent years?

For Director Pitsuwan do you agree with the view that Thailand is a rogue power, and if not, what reassurances do you have for the globe that Thailand is a power for good not evil. Thank you both."

Basedcnt Bossza007

 

[Basedcnt]

Minister Goff nod towards Mr. Grushanin as he raised his hand. Once the Russian newsman had asked the first question, Minister Goff would smile and say into the microphone, "Thank you for the question, Mr. Grushanin. I hope my answer will be suitable." He would pause. "The Strategic Partnership will, once ratified, create a number of working groups that will tackle economic co-operation and trade. In regards to the military aspect, it will create a working group to co-ordinate on mutual defence issues, which includes a mutual defence clause. As to your question about Australia over Thailand, or vice versa; my government is trying to work with more governments to better New Zealand. That does not mean choosing one over the other, and that is not what we have done."

He would pause while the Russian would ask his second question. He would then answer with, "Sure. Areas of cooperation include manafacturing and technology, but keep in mind that this is not a final, definitive list."

Minister Goff would then pause while the Thai diplomat would respond to the question. Once finished, Minister Goff would call upon Ms. Tatarova. He would respond to her questions before the Director-General, saying, "I think 'rogue actor' is a lable, applied by those who may not have New Zealand's best interest at heart." He would finish answering the questions posed by the 2 Russian journalists.

Jay Bossza007

 

[Bossza007]

Director-General Surin Pitsuwan maintained a calm and approachable demeanor during the press conference, engaging with the media earnestly. He seemed to genuinely enjoy answering questions, a quality likely appreciated by many journalists. After Minister Goff addressed the first two inquiries, Surin took the stage and responded with measured confidence.

“Thank you for your question, Mr. Grushanin from Izvestia. This treaty marks a significant deepening of the military relationship between Thailand and New Zealand—one that is unprecedented in our shared history. For the first time, both nations are fully committed to providing mutual defense assistance that goes beyond traditional military doctrine. This agreement enables us to confront shared threats more effectively, fostering a partnership that benefits both our countries. While it is natural for some to express concern about the shifts in power dynamics that may arise from this development, I want to stress that this treaty is based on the principle of sovereign equality. It is not about expanding Thailand’s sphere of influence, but rather about two nations coming together as equal partners to enhance security in our respective regions. Thank you.”

After another round of questions, Surin once again took the podium following Minister Goff. His tone remained steady yet firm. "Thank you, Ms. Andreevna from RIA Novosti. I must respectfully disagree with the characterization of Thailand as a 'rogue state.' Such a label typically applies to nations that openly defy international law and sovereignty—like Egypt, with its controversial Interaction Zone. That said, I do understand the concerns that Thailand could be perceived this way. Thailand believes that every nation has its own priorities, which may or may not align with those of others. Our agenda is clear: we seek to foster a world order based on equality, justice, and human dignity. Naturally, when our goals diverge from those of other nations, it may lead to misunderstandings. But being seen as a 'rogue state' is not a reflection of our values—it's a consequence of differing worldviews. Thank you again for your thoughtful questions." He concluded with a measured nod.

Basedcnt Jay​