Marise Payne (NSW, Liberal Party, Minister for Foreign Affairs) Share this | Hansard source

Senator McGrath reminds us that Australia and Thailand enjoy a long, deep and enduring partnership. Throughout Mr al-Araibi's detention, the Prime Minister and I maintained regular and respectful contact with our Thai counterparts, including during my own visit to Bangkok in early January. We deeply appreciate the way in which Thailand has engaged with Australia throughout Mr al-Araibi's detention, which is reflective of the strength of that partnership.

The people of Australia have a great affection for Thailand and the Thai people. Thailand is a close regional partner with whom we cooperate closely on a wide range of issues. Late last year, we announced that we would work with Thailand and other regional partners on a new five-year phase to support the management of the Mekong—a vital, vital river source in that part of the world. Thailand is our ninth-largest trading partner. We'll also be working very closely with Thailand this year in support of its role as chair of ASEAN.