Bangkok: The Prime Minister held discussions with the Ambassador of Bahrain to Thailand to advance cooperation in trade, investment, medical tourism, and food security. He also reiterated Thailand's support for peace and stability in the Middle East.
According to Thai News Agency, today (May 14, 2026), His Excellency Mr. Khalil Yaqoob AlKhayat, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Bahrain to Thailand, paid a courtesy call on Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, upon assuming his duties. Ms. Ratchada Thanadirek, Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, revealed the key points of the discussion.
The Prime Minister congratulated the Ambassador of Bahrain on assuming his duties, emphasizing that Thailand values Bahrain as a friendly and important partner in the Middle East. He stressed the long-standing and close relationship between Thailand and Bahrain at all levels-royal, governmental, and people-and noted that both countries are preparing to celebrate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations next year. The Ambassador of Bahrain expressed his pleasure at taking up his role in Thailand, noting that his previous experience as a diplomat in the country gives him a deep understanding of the country.
The Prime Minister and the Ambassador of Bahrain also welcomed the progress of cooperation between the two countries and agreed to promote cooperation in areas with mutual potential, particularly in trade and investment, medical tourism, and food security, where Thailand has expertise and readiness to expand cooperation.
In terms of trade and investment, both sides expressed their willingness to boost bilateral trade value, promote two-way investment, and explore new economic opportunities together. The Prime Minister hoped for increased exchanges of private sector visits between Thailand and Bahrain. The Ambassador of Bahrain expressed his willingness to promote imports of Thai products, noting that Bahrain's proximity to Saudi Arabia and other Middle Eastern countries, which represent a large market, makes it well-positioned to serve as a gateway for Thai goods into the Middle East region.
In terms of tourism and health tourism, Thailand is a popular destination for Bahrainis, especially for medical treatment. By 2025, over 30,000 Bahrainis are expected to visit Thailand. However, the Prime Minister continues to encourage more Bahrainis to seek medical services in Thailand. The Bahraini Ambassador praised Thailand's healthcare capabilities and agreed to further strengthen cooperation in this area.
In terms of food security, Thailand reaffirms its role as a reliable source of quality food production and export to support Bahrain's food security.
Furthermore, the Prime Minister expressed concern over the situation in the Middle East and emphasized the importance of dialogue and de-escalation. However, despite the ongoing situation in the Middle East, the Prime Minister and the Ambassador of Bahrain reaffirmed their commitment to continuing cooperation in various areas of mutual interest to both countries.
Finally, the Prime Minister expressed his confidence that the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Bahrain would play a key role in continuing and enhancing bilateral relations, as well as promoting closer cooperation between the two countries in the future, and wished him success in his duties in Thailand throughout his term.