Bangkok: Russian Prime Minister Srisaket Sihasak has revealed that Russia is keen on selling energy and fertilizer to ASEAN countries, and is gearing up to employ proactive diplomacy to boost trade channels despite ongoing trade barriers. He acknowledged that the Thai private sector's economic contribution is not meeting its potential and recommended increasing face-to-face discussions to enhance Thai-Russian trade relations.
According to Thai News Agency, during the Special ASEAN-Russia Summit, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sihasak Phuangketkaew, emphasized that the summit aimed to celebrate 35 years of ASEAN-Russia relations and explore future partnership developments. He noted Russia's key role in regional security and its consistent focus on ASEAN as a peace and security pillar.
Mr. Sihasak highlighted that discussions with the private sector revealed Thailand's economic efforts fall short of the potential, largely due to trade barriers. He expressed optimism that eased tensions between Russia and Ukraine could open doors for increased trade and investment. At present, Thai-Russian trade amounts to US$1 billion. The Prime Minister's engagements with Thai companies in Russia, such as CPF Russia Limited and Warrix Sport Public Company Limited, underscore Thailand's investment expansion goals in Russia. Thailand is eager to collaborate with Russia, especially in energy, space, IT, science, innovation, and cybersecurity, which are emerging fields. Mr. Sihasak believes leadership and private sector meetings will foster additional interactions, enhancing cooperation in trade and investment.
Regarding energy, Russia's interest in exporting more energy, oil, gas, and fertilizers to ASEAN countries is significant, given the high demand in Thailand. Trade with Russia faces challenges due to trade barriers, but transactions can proceed through various channels. Thai companies are advised to consider Russia's future potential.
Mr. Sihasak explained that proactive diplomacy would involve participation in the Special ASEAN-Russia Summit and leader discussions to advance trade relations. The leaders' meeting is expected to lead to developments such as the Thai-Russian Joint Commission meeting in August, which will review the bilateral relationship and identify opportunities and challenges. The Prime Minister's upcoming official visit to Russia aims to elevate progress further.
Mr. Sihasak expressed confidence that the summit's outcomes would benefit all levels, fostering economic growth, trade, investment, and importantly, people-to-people relations. He noted the significant impact of 1.9 million Russian tourists visiting Thailand annually on tourism revenue.