Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, provided clarification regarding the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on rare earth cooperation between Thailand and the United States. He emphasized that "rare earth" is a broad term encompassing various minerals that can be developed into industrial products to reduce costs and enhance production efficiency, contrary to public misconceptions that have caused undue concern.
The Prime Minister explained that Thailand has not yet fully explored its rare earth potential. Should future surveys identify deposits aligned with global market demand, the United States' interest in collaborative development presents a significant opportunity for Thailand to access much-needed expertise and technology. The MOU explicitly stipulates that all cooperation must be conducted under principles of good governance, Thai law, and in compliance with the Constitution.
The Prime Minister stressed that the MOU is merely a "memorandum of understanding" with no legally binding force, allowing both parties to pursue cooperation with other nations. Either party may terminate the agreement without requiring consent from the other if continuation is deemed inappropriate.
"There is nothing to worry about," the Prime Minister stated, viewing the MOU signing as part of efforts to restore and strengthen Thai-U.S. relations while paving the way for negotiations on other important matters, particularly the trade agreement currently being negotiated between the Ministry of Commerce and U.S. representatives.
The Prime Minister revealed that during his meeting with President Donald J. Trump following the signing ceremony, he requested consideration for reducing import tariffs on Thai products as reciprocation for the improved bilateral relationship. He views these negotiations as creating no harm but rather fostering a positive atmosphere and opening long-term economic opportunities for Thailand.
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