‘Sihasak’ Unveils Enhanced Thai-Kazakh Partnership Focused on Energy and Digital Sectors

Bangkok: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sihasak Phuangketkaew, has disclosed the outcomes of his official visit to the Republic of Kazakhstan, aimed at strengthening bilateral ties in political, economic, trade, and investment sectors. The visit, which included a delegation of over 10 Thai private sector companies, featured a business seminar and discussions with Kazakhstan's President and ministers, resulting in a mutual agreement to expand cooperation across multiple areas.

According to Thai News Agency, Kazakhstan is recognized for its strategic role in Central Asia and its membership in the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). Thailand expressed interest in pursuing a free trade agreement with the EAEU, leveraging Kazakhstan's position as a key economic partner with substantial potential. The visit underscored Kazakhstan's readiness to support Thailand's energy security by offering access to its abundant energy resources, a crucial step for Thailand to diversify its energy imports amidst Middle Eastern uncertainties.

Kazakhstan's advancements in digital technology present another avenue for collaboration, with Thailand keen on knowledge exchange to foster innovation and technological development. The visit also highlighted Kazakhstan's view of Thailand as a gateway to the ASEAN region, with intentions to bolster economic cooperation through joint ventures in food production, tourism, and hotel investment.

Moreover, Kazakhstan is interested in enhancing its service industry by sending personnel to Thailand for training and study tours, aiming to elevate its human resource development in the sector.