LISBON, Portugal – Thailand expects to conclude a free trade agreement (FTA) with the European Union within 2026, following diplomatic visits to Italy, Spain and Portugal that secured support for advancing the negotiations. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow made the remarks after completing his European tour with an official visit to Portugal, where he met Portuguese Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel.
During the visit, the two countries signed an agreement waiving visa requirements for holders of diplomatic and official passports, making official travel easier and supporting closer bilateral relations. Sihasak said the purpose of the European tour was to reinforce Thailand’s position as an important partner in ASEAN, a regional bloc recognised for its role in promoting peace and its growing economic potential.
He said discussions went beyond bilateral relations to explore strategic partnerships, closer economic links between the EU and ASEAN, and shared perspectives on changes to the global order.
The EU-Thailand FTA negotiations were a key priority. Sihasak said the talks were approaching their final stage and that additional political support from European partners could help bring the agreement to a conclusion by the end of this year.
He also highlighted opportunities for cooperation with Portugal in clean energy and the digital economy. Thailand is pursuing a transition towards greener and more digital industries, while data centres and emerging industries require reliable supplies of clean electricity. Portugal’s experience in renewable energy could support these ambitions.
Sihasak said Portuguese officials had also expressed interest in the capabilities of Thai companies, including major businesses investing internationally in the food and energy sectors.
The visit, he said, was valuable not only for bilateral ties but also for relations between Thailand and the EU, as well as between the EU and ASEAN. He stressed the importance of keeping Thailand visible on Europe’s strategic agenda.
Travel facilitation was another subject discussed during the tour. Thailand has asked Portugal and Spain to support visa-free access for Thai travellers to the Schengen area. Sihasak also referred to progress under the EU’s “visa cascade” approach, which can make it easier for frequent travellers, particularly businesspeople, to obtain longer-validity multiple-entry visas. The diplomatic passport agreement with Portugal marks a practical step towards easier official exchanges, while Thailand continues seeking broader travel and economic opportunities with Europe.
