On 20 December 2024, H.E. Mr. Paisan Ruapanichakit, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, co-chaired the First Thailand-Kuwait Political Consultations with H.E. Mr. Sameeh Essa Johar Hayat, Assistant Foreign Minister for Asian Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kuwait, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Bangkok.

            Both sides expressed appreciation for the enduring and cordial relations between Thailand and Kuwait, which have spanned over 60 years. They reaffirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation across all areas and agreed to explore avenues for formalising agreements in mutually prioritised sectors. They also highlighted the importance of advancing the implementation of existing agreements to achieve tangible outcomes. The overall discussions covered a broad spectrum of bilateral cooperation, including food security, medical tourism, labour exchange, education, and trade.

            Both sides further emphasised the need to strengthen their investment partnership, involving active participation from both the public and private sectors. The Kuwaiti side invited Thai construction firms to engage in large-scale infrastructure projects in Kuwait, while Thailand welcomed Kuwaiti investment in key infrastructure initiatives, including the Landbridge project.

            On multilateral matters, both sides explored ways to enhance cooperation within Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD), where both countries play significant roles. Kuwaiti side reiterated its support for Thailand’s ACD Chairmanship in 2025. Meanwhile, Thai side reaffirmed its support for Kuwait’s efforts to deepen its relations with ASEAN. Additionally, they exchanged views on the situation in the Middle East.

            The First Thailand-Kuwait Political Consultations marked a significant milestone in the bilateral relationship. Kuwait was Thailand’s 7th largest trading partner in the Middle East in 2023, with bilateral trade reaching USD 1 billion, highlighting significant potential for further growth. Kuwait will host the 2nd Thailand-Kuwait Political Consultations.

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