Thailand and the European Union could conclude a free trade agreement (FTA) by the end of this year, says Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow.
He was speaking as he concluded his official visits to Italy, Spain and Portugal from Oct 18-23.
In Portugal, Mr Sihasak met Portuguese Minister of State and Foreign Affairs Paulo Rangel and signed an agreement waiving visa requirements for holders of diplomatic and official passports to facilitate travel and strengthen bilateral relations.
Mr Sihasak said Portuguese officials were impressed by the capabilities of Thai companies, which have established a global presence in industries including food and energy.
Portugal has strong capabilities in clean energy, an area of growing importance for Thailand as it develops new industries, including data centres.
Mr Sihasak also said the purpose of his European tour was to highlight the importance of Thailand’s role in Asean, an organisation that promotes regional peace and economic integration.
The discussion went beyond bilateral ties, focusing on forging new opportunities with Europe, he said.
He said Thailand and several European countries shared common views on changes to the global order and ways to strengthen economic connectivity between the EU and Asean, with Thailand specifically seeking support among EU nations to push for the FTA negotiations which are nearing conclusions.
With “political momentum”, a deal can be reached before the end of the year.
Sarun Charoensuwan, vice minister for foreign affairs, said Thailand is working with the EU to finalise the Thailand-EU FTA and that facilitation of Schengen visas for Thai passport holders would help boost trade and tourism.
He was speaking during the recent Hungarian National Day Reception in Bangkok.
Szilvia Szalóki, the Hungarian ambassador to Thailand, said Thailand and Hungary shared ties that can be traced back to 1956, the year of the Hungarian Revolution in which Thailand expressed diplomatic and humanitarian support at the UN.
“For us Hungarians, this is not simply a historical fact; it is a memory we carry with gratitude.
“Imagine what it means to stand alone in a difficult moment and then discover that someone far beyond your own borders has heard your voice and believes that your freedom matters. This is what solidarity means, and this is what friendship means,” she said.