Vice Premier and Minister of Foreign Relations Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara has voiced staunch advocacy for unrestricted travel rights, without the prerequisite of a visa, for all Thai tourists wishing to explore the culture and various landscapes of Germany and the rest of the European Union – the countries uniting Europe.
While attending the 78th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 78) all the way across the ocean in the United States, Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara, the seasoned politician of age 66, used his time wisely, establishing a connection with his German counterpart, Minister of Foreign Affairs Tobias Lindner. The aim, on this circuitously global diplomatic stage, was to inspire an alliance, and set a platform for negotiations encompassing numerous areas that could potentially see growth between the two countries.
The primary points of conversation during the discussions included the establishment of strong trade collaborations, comprehensive strategies to combat the prevalent issue of climate change, the rising trend of electric and hydrogen-fueled vehicles encroaching in the automobile industry, and the complexities involved in the intricate defence sector. Parnpree also used this opportunity to convey an invitation to his German fellow diplomat, suggesting the German government seriously take into consideration a waiver of the mandatory Schengen visa for Thai tourists, with the intention of bolstering preservation of the Thai passport’s integrity.
In his plea, Parnpree emphasized that Germany, along with its EU counterparts like France, Italy, Switzerland, the Netherlands, and Sweden, is an alluring destination to Thai tourists. Thus, he further implored that a possibility of visa-free travel policy is an effective way to strengthen international relations.
As yet, no official declaration about the outcome of these negotiations or the subsequent steps that will follow in this diplomatic dance was made.
Simultaneously, Thailand announced an evolution in their travel policies, as, effective immediately, China and Kazakhstan tourists can now enjoy the pleasures of visa-free travel. With an expiration date set for February 25, 2024, this relief stretches out over a five-month duration.
The primary objective of the Thai government with this initiative is to renew tourist interest and lure more global visitors to its scenic country, with a focus on the Chinese tourists whose numbers are sadly declining due to the rampaging pandemic. The optimistic Thai government foresees the visa-waiver policy potentially doubling the number of daily Chinese tourists from the current around 9,600 to 18,000.
To enhance the overall travel experience for Chinese nationals, The Ministry of Transport is also planning on making available multiple payment options aided by local Chinese business providers in airports and various local venues throughout Thailand.
For more fascinating stories brought to you by The Thaiger, check out our new Facebook page.
Be First to Comment