Thailand approves Dutch Embassy land purchase in Bangkok

Thailand's Cabinet has approved a draft exchange of letters allowing the Netherlands to purchase land in Bangkok for a new ambassador's residence, a government spokesperson said on Tuesday.

Deputy government spokeswoman Lalida Phermsriwatthana said the Dutch Embassy plans to buy two plots of land and buildings covering a total area of about 1,500 square metres in Soi Ruam Rudi, Lumphini subdistrict, Pathumwan district, to serve as the new residence of the Dutch ambassador to Thailand.

She said the Netherlands currently owns more than 15 rai of land in Thailand, meaning any additional land acquisition must be considered by the Cabinet on a case-by-case basis under existing regulations.

The agreement sets out rights related to the ownership of land, buildings and condominiums for embassy or consular use, including exemptions on taxes, fees and related charges based on reciprocity between the two countries.

Relevant agencies, including the Treasury Department, Land Department, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration and Royal Thai Police, raised no objections, saying the site is suitable for diplomatic use and has adequate security measures.

Lalida said the move would help the Dutch Embassy better align its premises with modern diplomatic missions, while Thailand would receive reciprocal benefits should it seek to acquire additional property in the Netherlands in the future.

She said the agreement reflected stable Thai-Dutch relations based on mutual trust, legal principles and reciprocity.