BANGKOK – Deputy Prime Minister Somkid Jatusripitak and six ministers are conducting an official visit to the Sultanate of Oman and the Islamic Republic of Iran.
The six ministers travelling with Mr. Somkid are Foreign Minister Don Pramudwinai, Science and Technology Minister Pichet Durongkaveroj, Industry Minister Atchaka Sibunruang, Energy Minister Gen Anantaporn Kanjanarat, Finance Minister Apisak Tantivorawong and Commerce Minister Apiradee Tantraporn.
Mr. Somkid, the six ministers, and 71 representatives from public and private agencies stayed in Oman from January 31 to February 1 and will visit Iran from February 2 – 5. The delegation will seek new markets for Thai agricultural products in these countries. Initially, Thailand hopes to export at least 300,000 tons in rice to Iran, while the Middle Eastern nation provides for Thailand’s energy security.
Commerce Minister Apiradee Tantraporn revealed that the trade value between Thailand and Oman is worth about 1.1 billion US dollars. She said Thailand’s key exports to the nation include automobiles, auto parts and chemical products.
Ms. Apiradee pointed out that trade value between Thailand and Iran was 600 million US dollars before international sanctions slashed it in half. She expects Thailand will sell more rubber, sugar and rice to these target nations.
