Thai Envoy Highlights Cooperation with Kingdom

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Thai Envoy Highlights Cooperation with Kingdom


Amman– Thai Ambassador to Jordan, Supark Prongthura, highlighted the enduring diplomatic ties between Jordan and Thailand, emphasizing the continuous efforts since 1966 to enhance political, economic, and cultural cooperation.اضافة اعلان

The ambassador announced plans for 2024 to bolster trade and investment between the two nations, involving high-level meetings and business engagements aimed at facilitating smoother trade and investment processes.

He also revealed progress in finalizing a memorandum of understanding for political consultations between their foreign ministries, which would foster deeper collaboration on shared interests, including development, economic opportunities, and global security challenges.

On trade, the ambassador noted that despite a decline due to regional instability, trade volumes reached $147.01 million by October 2024, with optimism for future growth. He also underlined Jordan's appeal as an educational destination for Thai students, with around 350 currently studying in the kingdom.

Thailand's embassy actively supports these students through various initiatives, while Thailand offers scholarships to Jordanians in return, he added.

Tourism between the countries has also flourished, with 14,300 Jordanians visiting Thailand by October 2024, a 54% increase compared to the previous year. Facilitating this growth is Thailand's visa waiver policy for Jordanians and direct flight connections via Royal Jordanian Airlines.

In development cooperation, the Thailand International Cooperation Agency has provided training opportunities for Jordanians, focusing on fields like public health, agriculture, and sustainable development. Future programs will address climate change, environmental sustainability, and the Bio-Circular Green Economy (BCG) model.

Prongthura expressed Thailand's concerns over the situation in Gaza, calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities and adherence to international humanitarian law. He commended Jordan’s humanitarian efforts in Gaza and its role in regional dialogue. Thailand has been a consistent supporter of UNRWA, contributing financial aid to alleviate humanitarian crises in the region.

Finally, the ambassador reflected on the significance of Thailand’s National Day, celebrated annually on December 5, as a tribute to the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej's contributions to national welfare. Approximately 900 Thai nationals, including students and workers, reside in Jordan, with the Thai government committed to their well-being.