Full Report
Bangkok GRAD June Meeting Explores Russia–Thailand–ASEAN Relations
On 23 June 2026, Bangkok GRAD hosted its monthly meeting at the Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok, bringing together members of the business community, diplomats, entrepreneurs, and professionals interested in Southeast Asia's evolving geopolitical and economic landscape.
The guest speaker of the evening was Evgeny Belenky, Russian journalist, historian, and Head of the Southeast Asia Bureau of Rossiya Segodnya. Having worked in Thailand and across the region for more than thirty years, Mr. Belenky is widely regarded as one of Russia's leading experts on Southeast Asia.
In his presentation, "Russia, Thailand, ASEAN: Practical Aspects of Relations Through the Eyes of an Eyewitness and a Chronicler," Mr. Belenky combined historical analysis with personal experience accumulated throughout decades of reporting from Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar, and other countries of the region.
The speaker outlined the evolution of Russia's engagement with Southeast Asia, from the Soviet era and the post-Soviet transition period to the modern stage of strategic partnership with ASEAN. He highlighted ASEAN's transformation into one of the world's most successful regional organizations and emphasized its growing role in shaping the emerging international order.
A key theme of the evening was ASEAN's commitment to maintaining strategic balance. According to Mr. Belenky, countries in the region continue to pursue constructive relations with all major powers while preserving their independence and regional identity.
The presentation was followed by an active discussion covering a wide range of topics, including ASEAN's future, Russia's role in Southeast Asia, regional security, international journalism, Russian-Thai relations, and the influence of Thailand's monarchy on society and governance.
The event attracted representatives of Bangkok GRAD, the Thai-Russian Chamber of Commerce (TRCC), the Trade Representation of the Russian Federation in Thailand, members of the Russian diplomatic community, and professionals from the finance, technology, consulting, aviation, logistics, real estate, and international trade sectors.
Following the formal session, participants continued discussions during the networking reception, exchanging ideas and exploring opportunities for future cooperation.
At the conclusion of the evening, Evgeny Belenky was presented with a certificate of appreciation in recognition of his contribution to the Bangkok GRAD community. Due to strong interest from attendees, the club plans to organize a future meeting dedicated to the history and role of Thailand's monarchy and its place in the country's modern development.
