PHUKET, Thailand – Thailand and the United States have discussed closer cooperation in maritime transport, ports, aviation, cybersecurity, and energy during a visit by more than 5,000 U.S. Navy personnel to Phuket. Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn met U.S. Ambassador to Thailand Sean O’Neill at the Ministry of Transport yesterday (Oct 5) to discuss bilateral cooperation and arrangements for the visit.
The USS George H.W. Bush and USS Delbert D. Black arrived in waters off Phuket on October 4 with about 5,109 personnel, who are scheduled for rest and recreation through October 9. The Ministry of Transport is working with the Marine Department and local agencies to facilitate travel between the vessels and shore, while police, military personnel, and other authorities oversee security, traffic, and public order.
The two sides also discussed the Smart and Secure Port Program and cooperation through the U.S. Trade and Development Agency, covering port modernization, operational efficiency, and cybersecurity. Other areas included U.S.-supported training for Thai transport officials in November and a proposal for Thailand to consider aircraft-related provisions of the Cape Town Convention.
Discussions also involved international maritime transport, potential carbon-related costs under the IMO Net-Zero Framework, and future energy cooperation. Thailand will continue providing safety and logistical support for visiting U.S. personnel while pursuing further cooperation with the United States across transport and related sectors. (NNT)
