Thailand is seeking help from European Union member states to conclude a trade pact by the end of 2026, with officials framing the talks as part of wider ties with Southeast Asia, the Bangkok Post reported.
The newspaper reported that Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow believes a deal could be reached this year if political support sustains the negotiations. He connected the talks to efforts to strengthen economic links between the EU and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Sihasak also said Thailand and several European countries shared views on changes to the international system, the Bangkok Post reported.
Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs Sarun Charoensuwan said Thailand was working with the EU to complete the pact and ease Schengen visa access for Thai passport holders. He said easier access could support trade and tourism, according to the newspaper.
That visa request is separate from a Portugal agreement reported by the Bangkok Post. During a visit to Portugal, Sihasak signed an accord with Portuguese Minister of State and Foreign Affairs Paulo Rangel waiving visa requirements for holders of diplomatic and official passports. The newspaper said the agreement was intended to simplify travel and deepen ties between Thailand and Portugal.
The two measures have different scopes: the Portugal accord covers official and diplomatic passport holders, while Sarun's Schengen initiative concerns Thai passport holders. Sarun linked easier visa access to trade and tourism, the Bangkok Post reported.
Portuguese officials were impressed by Thai companies' capabilities and their established international presence in the food and energy industries, the paper reported. It also cited Portugal's clean-energy capabilities and the growing importance of new industries, including data centers, for Thailand. Sihasak said his European tour was also intended to highlight Thailand's role in ASEAN, which promotes regional peace and economic integration, the newspaper reported.
