Thailand, Oman Strengthen Ties on Trade and Food Security
Thailand and Oman pledged to deepen trade and investment ties during a meeting between Parliament Speaker Sophon Saram and Oman's ambassador, with both nations emphasizing cooperation in food security and energy trade.
On September 22, Parliament Speaker Sophon Saram received Issa Abdullah Jaber Al-Alawi, the Sultan of Oman's Ambassador to Thailand, to congratulate him on assuming office and strengthen bilateral relations. Sophon expressed his pleasure and honour at welcoming the ambassador, who has served in Thailand for more than six years, commending his dedicated work. The parliament speaker proposed establishing a Thai-Oman Friendship Group to further consolidate ties.
Sophon thanked Oman for its assistance in rescuing Thai crew members from the merchant vessel Muyurinaree after it encountered difficulties in the Strait of Hormuz, safely bringing them home. He noted that this act made a profound impression on the Thai people.
The parliament speaker reaffirmed that Thailand and Oman share strong relations and seek to promote trade and business cooperation to increase investment and commercial opportunities for both nations. Although Thailand is developing alternative energy sources, it remains dependent on oil, making Oman a valued trading partner. Sophon expressed hope that Oman would serve as a mediator in seeking solutions and promoting peace in the Middle East, while ensuring the Omani people are not negatively affected by regional developments.
Sophon also assured that Thailand would be a gracious host to Omani tourists and medical service users, while thanking Oman for its invitation to visit and expressing his willingness to attend Oman's National Day celebrations in November.
The Omani ambassador thanked the parliament speaker for the reception and expressed his pleasure regarding Sophon's appointment. He emphasized that Thai-Oman relations have been strong and smooth since 1980, with expanded cooperation across multiple dimensions including agriculture, fisheries, and food security, complemented by regular high-level exchanges. Regarding parliamentary cooperation, Oman expressed readiness to support the establishment of a friendship group within the legal frameworks of both countries.
The ambassador further noted that under Oman Vision 2040, which aims to diversify the economy and build sustainability, Oman welcomes investment from Thailand, particularly in innovation and food security. He invited the parliament speaker to visit Oman at an appropriate time and to attend the National Day celebrations in November, with a formal invitation letter to follow.
