SONGKHLA: The National Security Council (NSC), in partnership with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), has led ambassadors and embassy officials from 21 countries on a three-day visit to Songkhla in a bid to reshape perceptions about safety in Thailand’s southern border provinces.
The visit, held under the programme “Songkhla: Enhancing Better Understanding and Fostering Cooperation” from Monday to Wednesday, showcased the province’s cultural diversity, history and business potential. Eight journalists from international and Thai media also joined the trip.
Chatchai Bangchuad, Secretary-General of the NSC, said that the government is committed to resolving the long-standing unrest in the southern border region, emphasising that most areas are peaceful and are experiencing increasing growth in trade and tourism.
He highlighted Songkhla as a model, noting: “We want ambassadors to see for themselves that only a handful of districts face security concerns. The majority of the South remains calm, with strong economic opportunities.”
The diplomatic delegation was welcomed by Songkhla governor, Chotnarin Kerdsom, who highlighted the province’s strengths as a maritime hub with cultural and culinary diversity, a strong agricultural sector, and strategic transport links by rail, road, and air. Local souvenirs, such as Ko Yo printed fabric and traditional palm-woven garlands, were presented to the guests.
Throughout the tour, the ambassadors saw historical landmarks, museums, and cultural performances.
They also visited Sri Trang Gloves, the world’s largest exporter of medical rubber gloves, and the Sadao Customs House, which is developing a new fast-track border system.
The itinerary also included Prince of Songkla University and its science park, emphasising the province’s academic and research strengths.
Diplomats also joined “Songkhla Business Night”, where local entrepreneurs introduced distinctive food, beverages and wellness services.
Menus ranged from traditional tofu dishes to fusion cocktails blending local fruits with palm spirit, reflecting the province’s mix of heritage and innovation.
Ping Kitnikone, Canada’s ambassador to Thailand, described the visit as “an important opportunity to better understand the realities on the ground”.
She noted that Canadian tourists are already drawn to the region.
“Thailand deserves credit for promoting safety and highlighting the richness of its communities,” she said. “This trip has shown the diversity and resilience that make Songkhla appealing.”
Swiss ambassador, Felipe Zwahlende la Morena Casado, who visited Songkhla for the fourth time, said he had “never felt alarmed” travelling in the area and stressed that the region’s industrial and tourism strengths should not be overlooked.
“It is time to consider adjusting travel advisories in line with the actual situation,” he remarked, while also urging Thai media to highlight more positive stories from the South.
Norwegian ambassador, Astrid Emilie Helle, said the trip offered crucial insights for her government.
“We remain cautious about safety in southern Thailand, but this visit has shown us a beautiful and welcoming province,” she said. “I will report back to Oslo with updated impressions and commend the Thai government’s efforts here.”
Mr Chatchai added that inviting diplomats from economies with strong trade and investment potential would help generate accurate assessments, reducing outdated concerns.
“Trusted voices like ambassadors can take back first-hand observations to their capitals, leading to more balanced travel guidance and stronger cooperation in tourism and commerce,” he said.