BANGKOK – On January 9, the American Chamber of Commerce (AMCHAM) Thailand hosted the incoming U.S. Ambassador to Thailand, Sean O’Neill, at its first Member Luncheon of the year.
This event provided AMCHAM members with a valuable opportunity to engage directly with Ambassador O’Neill and gain firsthand insights into the Embassy’s priorities for 2026.
AMCHAM members were also pleased to reconnect with former U.S. Ambassador to Thailand and current Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian Affairs, Michael George DeSombre, who introduced Ambassador O’Neill to AMCHAM members at the event.
During his remarks, Ambassador O’Neill commended AMCHAM for its significant role in strengthening the relationship between the United States and Thailand. He highlighted the Chamber’s ongoing efforts to promote fair trade, drive innovation, enhance education, and support American businesses operating in Thailand.
Emphasizing the importance of continued partnership, Ambassador O’Neill underscored the U.S. commitment to shared prosperity and security for both nations. He stated, “U.S interests and Thai interests almost always overlap. We are upfront with each other about what those interests are and how we can work together to achieve them.”
The Ambassador also outlined the Embassy’s key priorities for the coming year, focusing on deepening the longstanding U.S.-Thailand relationship. Attendees learned about specific strategies aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation, supporting economic growth, and fostering a dynamic environment for trade and investment between the two countries.
The AMCHAM Member Luncheon served as a platform for business leaders to connect with U.S. diplomatic leadership and hear directly from Ambassador O’Neill about his vision and plans, including initiatives in Thailand for America250.
Members were informed about upcoming celebrations marking this important anniversary for American independence and explored new opportunities for partnership and innovation designed to advance U.S.-Thailand commercial interests.
About AMCHAM Thailand
The American Chamber of Commerce (AMCHAM) Thailand is an independent, non-profit, and politically neutral organization with over 3,500 business members representing 700 companies of American, Thai, and other nationalities.
This makes AMCHAM a leading organization among foreign business associations in Thailand, contributing to the employment of over 500,000 workers in the country.
For more information about the American Chamber of Commerce in Thailand, please visit www.amchamthailand.com or contact Varsha Wadhwani, Communications Manager, at varsha@amchamthailand.com.
