Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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In recent weeks we have had excellent communication and exchange, at both Ministerial and official level, with the Kingdom of Thailand. Although I have not had a meeting so far in 2022 with Thailand’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, I am pleased to report that Thailand’s Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Vijavat Isarabhakdi, travelled to Ireland earlier this month and met with Minister of State Brophy.

On 12 July, Thailand’s Ambassador to Ireland met with the Secretary General of the Department of Foreign Affairs. The first Bilateral and Political Consultations between Ireland and Thailand were also held in Dublin on 1 July, marking a significant milestone in our deepening bilateral relationship.

As COVID-19 travel restrictions lift, outward ministerial visits have also recommenced. Minister of State Rabbitte travelled to Thailand in June to attend the Global Summit of Women in Bangkok where she met with the Minister for Social Development and Human Security, Mr Juti Krairiksh.

Throughout the year Ireland’s Embassy in Thailand maintains communication with Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and senior officials in the Thai government. In line with established Department of Foreign Affairs reporting procedures, the Embassy’s team provide regular reports on developments in Thailand and I am kept fully informed of ongoing work.