HE Ambassador Abdulrahman Alsuhaibani
Advancing Bilateral Relations Between Saudi Arabia and Thailand
After the resumption of diplomatic relations between Thailand and Saudi Arabia three years ago, HE Ambassador Abdulrahman Alsuhaibani has since hosted two National Day receptions in Bangkok. Meanwhile, on the global stage, Saudi Arabia is already actively promoting the much-anticipated World Expo 2030 in Riyadh and the recent announcement of hosting the FIFA World Cup in 2034. Elite+ was privileged to sit down with HE Ambassador Abdulrahman to learn more about his plans to further strengthen Thai-Saudi bilateral relations.
As a career diplomat, Ambassador Abdulrahman joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1986 and since has served in various departments of the Ministry and at embassies of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the United States, France, Austria and the United Kingdom. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from King Saud University and a Master's degree in International Affairs from the American University in Washington, DC. Prior to his arrival in Bangkok, he served as ambassador to New Zealand.
As Saudi Arabia and Thailand re-established diplomatic relations three years ago after three decades of absence, could you tell us what has been achieved so far and your plans for the near future?
Bilateral relations between Saudi Arabia and Thailand have experienced significant momentum since the restoration of diplomatic relations on 25 January 2022, following the visit of former Prime Minister General Prayut Chan-o-cha to Riyadh. This development has resulted in tangible advancements across various sectors, notably marked by the return of ambassadors to both nations, the establishment of the Saudi-Thai Coordination Council (STCC) and agreements aimed at strengthening bilateral relations.
The STCC comprises a range of joint committees focusing on political, consular, investment, economic, security, cultural and tourism matters. Notably, His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia visited Thailand on 18-19 November 2022, when he participated as a guest of honour at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit. During this visit, he met with His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn, Her Majesty Queen Suthida Bajrasudhabimalalakshana and Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Rajakanya. A series of bilateral discussions were conducted under the leadership of the Crown Prince and the Thai prime minister at Government House, culminating in the signing of six memorandums of understanding (MoUs) in areas such as energy, tourism, investment promotion, anti-corruption and the establishment of the STCC.
Continued communication between the two nations has been evident at both official and grassroots levels, characterized by frequent visits between officials and the private sector. This includes increased invitations from both governmental and private entities to participate in various forums, conferences and events spanning political, economic, commercial, investment and tourism domains. There has been a notable rise in proposals aimed at formalising agreements and MoUs between relevant authorities to further mutual interests.
On the political front, key visits have reinforced these ties, including the visit of former Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who met with the Crown Prince during the Riyadh Summit of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and ASEAN leaders on 20 October 2023. Additionally, the Former Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand which involved the foreign ministers of both countries. Additionally, there are plans for further ministerial visits from Saudi Arabia to Thailand in the upcoming months to further strengthen bilateral relations.
Could you elaborate on the high-level diplomatic visits between the two countries? Thailand received a delegation of 800 persons from Saudi Arabia in Bangkok during APEC 2022. What other visits or exchanges have taken place and are planned?
It is important to clarify that the number of attendees was not 800 but significantly lower. Nevertheless, the delegation reflected the Kingdom's commitment to the normalisation of relations with Thailand. During His Royal Highness Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman’s visit to Thailand for the APEC 2022 Summit, an official meeting was held with former Prime Minister General Prayut Chan-o-cha, reaffirming both leaders' dedication to enhancing bilateral, regional and international cooperation across various sectors.
A number of reciprocal visits followed this milestone event, including the Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of Saudi Arabia's visit to Thailand on 8 March 2023, when he met with the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, resulting in discussions on friendship and cooperation between the two nations.
What advice would you give Thai entrepreneurs who may be interested in trading with or investing in Saudi Arabia?
Many strategic sectors within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia offer significant advantages and incentives for foreign investors. The Kingdom ranks among the world's largest economies and is recognized as the largest market in the Middle East. Furthermore, the Saudi Riyal is one of the most stable currencies globally, and there are no restrictions on the exchange and transfer of foreign currencies or the repatriation of capital and profits.
I encourage Thai business leaders to visit the Kingdom in person to explore the substantial investment opportunities available across various sectors. Participating in conferences and meetings in Saudi Arabia organised by the Saudi-Thai Business Council and others can further facilitate the establishment of partnerships with Saudi counterparts.
Congratulations on winning the World Expo 2030. What can we expect as Saudi Arabia prepares for this global event? Can you tell us something about Saudi Vision 2030?
First and foremost, I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to the Thai government for its support in the Kingdom's hosting of World Expo 2030.
On 28 November 2023, during the General Assembly of the International Exhibitions Bureau in Paris, Saudi Arabia was awarded the opportunity to host Expo 2030 in its capital, Riyadh. This event is anticipated to significantly contribute to the Kingdom's sustainability goals, aligning with its climate commitments and leveraging advanced renewable energy solutions for the infrastructure of Expo 2030.
Under the leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and guided by Saudi Vision 2030, we have embarked on a transformative journey toward a brighter future, enhancing economic and social growth.
How big would you say the Saudi Arabian community is in Thailand, and what businesses are they involved in?
Thailand hosts a relatively small Saudi community, primarily consisting of a limited number of retired Saudi citizens and individuals engaged in private businesses. However, since the normalisation of relations two years ago, there has been a significant increase in Saudi tourism to Thailand, with approximately 215,000 Saudi tourists visiting in 2024.
With the reestablishment of bilateral ties between Saudi Arabia and Thailand, what activities are you now hosting and planning to promote?
Our activities focus on coordinating and arranging meetings for the Saudi-Thai Coordination Council, facilitating visits by governmental delegations and organizing economic, commercial and cultural exhibitions and conferences. We also host forums to enhance trade exchanges and identify investment opportunities between the two nations.
As you have now spent over two years in Thailand, what has impressed you most about the country and its culture?
I have been particularly struck by the richness of ancient Thai civilisation and heritage, the geographical diversity of Thailand and the country's dedication to preserving its cultural identity through numerous museums and cultural events.
During your travels around the Kingdom, what has impressed you most?
I am most impressed by the warmth, kindness and moral tolerance of the Thai people, qualities that have contributed to Thailand's reputation as the "The Land of Smiles".
To conclude, do you have any final thoughts you would like to share with our readers?
I firmly believe that the future of Saudi-Thai relations is destined to be prosperous and promising. I am deeply grateful to the Thai people for their warm welcome and generous hospitality during my stay. I extend my best wishes for Thailand's continued advancement, success and prosperity.
