Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov’s remarks at a ceremony for opening a Consulate General of the Russian Federation in Phuket, Phuket, July 15, 2023

Ladies and gentlemen, friends,

Today we are holding a remarkable ceremony to mark the opening of the Consulate General of the Russian Federation in Phuket.

I would like to begin by thanking the government of the Kingdom of Thailand, my colleague, the foreign minister, as well as the Governor of Phuket for their assistance in our efforts to open a new Russian consular office.

Today's event is an outstanding chapter in the 126-year history of diplomatic relations between our countries. It is gratifying to know that our joint efforts have resulted in the creation of a solid foundation for Russian-Thai ties that makes it possible to build a reliable and mutually respectful cooperation without regard for the volatile geopolitical situation.

We maintain an ongoing political dialogue, trade and economic cooperation, and cultural and educational exchanges with our Thai partners. We also bear in mind that one of the main objectives of diplomacy is to safeguard the rights and legitimate interests of Russian nationals abroad.

As is known, Thailand is a favourite holiday destination for Russians. Even during a short stay here, you tend to realise that there is a reason for Phuket being so popular. Nature is beautiful here, the climate is warm (that includes rainy seasons, you have to love them, too), and people are hospitable. After the resumption of direct air services, the tourist flow from Russia to Thailand increased markedly. Since October 2022, more than one million Russians have spent their vacations in Thailand, and half of them went to Phuket.

Without a doubt, these numbers will continue to grow. Foreign Minister of Thailand Don Pramudwinai and I  discussed today what needs to be done to have the Russian MIR payment system cards accepted in Thailand which will give an extra boost to the tourist flow to the country.

Phuket is a famous resort, but Russian diplomats have a lot of work to do here. They will perform direct consular functions to ensure Russian citizens’ interests are met in Phuket and work on establishing business contacts and promoting cooperation between Thailand and Russian regions. Establishing twin region ties between Phuket and the Kamchatka Territory is at the top of the bilateral agenda.

Today's ceremony for opening the permanent Russian Consulate General office in Phuket is an important step, but not the final one in expanding Russia's diplomatic presence in Southeast Asia. There are plans to open additional diplomatic missions in other friendly countries of the region.

In closing, I wish the Consul General and the staff of our diplomatic mission every success in their activities as they continue to work hard on strengthening friendly relations with the Thai people.

I encourage our Thai friends who made today's event possible to visit Russia more often and be our dear guests.