Bangkok: "Sihasak" reiterated readiness to reduce visa-free stay to 30 days to ensure national security. Sihasak emphasized the importance of consular affairs as diplomacy for the people, revealing that over 1,000 Thais have been evacuated from the Middle East. He reiterated the readiness to reduce visa-free stays to 30 days to ensure national security.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Sihasak Phuangketkaew, Minister of Foreign Affairs, stated before the opening of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' 2026 Global Consular Officers Training Seminar that the Ministry prioritizes consular affairs as diplomacy for the people, serving the public, protecting Thai citizens abroad, and providing comprehensive and timely passport services, as well as visa services.

"In the past, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been praised for issuing passports quickly and for expanding passport issuance offices in both Bangkok and the provinces to provide comprehensive and prompt service, as well as assisting Thai citizens who have lost their passports and belongings."

Regarding the fighting in the Middle East, Mr. Sihasak emphasized that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs prioritizes safety, and the evacuation of Thai citizens has been orderly and swift, with over 1,000 people successfully evacuated. He specifically noted that bringing Thai citizens back from Iran was not an easy task.

Mr. Sihasak also clarified the policy of reducing the visa-free period for tourists from 60 days to 30 days, stating that the previous government had approved a 60-day visa-free period for tourism purposes. However, the current situation shows that some foreigners are using it for other purposes. Therefore, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs proposed reducing the visa-free period from 60 days to 30 days, with the possibility of extension for tourism. He expressed confidence that this would not negatively impact tourism and would help to better maintain national security.

Mr. Sihasak also stated that the meeting with consular officials would discuss the policies of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, administrative improvements aimed at enhancing the quality of life for ministry officials, career advancement, ways to expedite and improve efficiency, and the application of technology.