Admiral Samuel J. Paparo, commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command, reinforced the longstanding defense partnership between the United States and Thailand during a visit to Bangkok on January 24 and 25. His meetings with senior Thai officials underscored a shared commitment to regional security and cooperation amid a complex strategic environment.

During official engagements, Adm. Paparo met with Permanent Secretary for Defence General Tharapong Malakam, Royal Thai Armed Forces Chief of Defence Forces General Ukris Boontanondha, and Royal Thai Army Commander-in-Chief General Pana Klaewplodtook.

The discussions focused on shared security priorities, from strengthening maritime security cooperation to expanding humanitarian assistance and disaster response capabilities.

Both sides also explored opportunities to deepen collaboration against transnational security challenges and enhance interoperability across military forces.

The leaders highlighted the importance of recurring joint exercises and military exchanges — including Cobra Gold, Cope Tiger, Hanuman Guardian, and Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training Thailand — as key elements of practical cooperation that strengthen readiness and mutual understanding between the two armed forces.

Adm. Paparo expressed appreciation for Thailand’s leadership in supporting regional stability and reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to assisting Thailand in addressing emerging challenges.

The United States-Thailand alliance is one of America’s oldest partnerships, built over nearly seven decades of military cooperation and shared strategic interests in maintaining a secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific.

The visit underscored that commitment and reaffirmed both nations’ shared vision for a free, open, and resilient regional order anchored in cooperation, readiness and mutual respect.