BANGKOK – In a significant move to bolster tourism and foster deeper international relations, Thailand’s Minister of Tourism, Mr. Sermsak Phongphanich, recently met with the Israeli Ambassador, Mrs. Orna Sagiv, to discuss a range of tourism-related issues. The meeting, which took place at the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, was a platform for both nations to explore collaborative opportunities and ensure the safety and equality of tourists, irrespective of their background.

The Thai Minister expressed his gratitude for the longstanding diplomatic relations between the two countries, emphasizing Thailand’s position as a top destination for Israeli tourists. With over 107,863 Israeli visitors in the first half of 2024, the commitment to maintaining Thailand as a safe and welcoming environment was reaffirmed.

Ambassador Sagiv highlighted the sense of security and warmth that Israeli tourists experience in Thailand, projecting a return to pre-Covid tourism levels. She proposed three initiatives aimed at enhancing the travel experience and accessibility between the two nations. These included the introduction of direct flights by Thai airlines to Israel, a Twin Cities Initiative to share knowledge and development strategies, and a seminar to exchange insights on Start-up Tourism and Tourism for All.

The Thai Minister welcomed these proposals and pledged to take concrete steps towards their realization.

The meeting with the Minister took place on the same day that Israel allegedly assassinated Palestinian resistance leader Ismail Haniyeh. That has significantly raised the risk of a broader conflict. For safety reasons, airlines have therefore canceled flights to Israel, which means travel in and out of Israel will be affected.

Furthermore, visiting Thailand is for Israeli tourists visa-free. But Thais need visas to go to Israel.  Also, a Buddhist or Christian Thai will be treated differently from a Muslim Thai, who will be subjected to far more detailed interrogation and security checks. More intrusive security checks and interrogations will follow at the Israeli border checkpoint, whether by air or land. – Israeli visitors to Thailand however are not subjected to a similar procedure. (zai)