MUSCAT, Oman – Thailand’s Foreign Minister has held urgent talks with Omani officials to secure the safe passage of Thai commercial vessels currently stranded amid escalating Middle East tensions.
Sihasak Phuangketkeow, Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, confirmed during his visit to Muscat that nine Thai cargo ships remain stuck in the region. He called for an “urgent” resolution to allow the vessels to traverse the strategic Strait of Hormuz safely.
Following a meeting with Oman’s Deputy Prime Minister for Defence Affairs, both parties issued a call for diplomacy and a sustained ceasefire. The Omani official pledged to coordinate with Iran to facilitate and ensure the security of the Thai vessels, noting that Thailand has already submitted the specific shipping details for coordination.
The mission also addressed Thailand’s energy security. Sihasak met with Oman’s Minister of Energy and Minerals to discuss potential crude oil and gas procurement. Omani officials indicated that while trade would depend on current production levels, they remain open to energy deals with Thailand through intermediary firms. Discussions also covered the purchase of fertilizer.
Sihasak is scheduled to have an audience with the Sultan of Oman later today to reaffirm bilateral ties before meeting with his Omani counterpart and members of the Thai community in Muscat. (TNA)
