On 2 July 2026, H.E. Mr. Sihasak Phuangketkeow, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, held discussions with H.E. Mr. Remco van Wijngaarden, Ambassador of the Netherlands to Thailand, who paid a farewell call upon the completion of his tenure.

The Deputy Prime Minister commended and expressed his appreciation to Ambassador Van Wijngaarden for his significant contributions to strengthening Thailand - Netherlands relations throughout his diplomatic assignment of over five years. These include the Ambassador’s continued efforts in advancing cooperation across a wide range of areas and the support for Thailand in hosting the exhibition “Chud Thai: The Knowledge, Craftsmanship, and Practice of Thai National Dress” in The Hague in April 2026, presided over by Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya. The exhibition played an important role in showcasing Thailand’s cultural heritage and craftsmanship to the international community. He also thanked the Ambassador for the support of the visit to the Netherlands by H.E. Professor Dr. Yodchanan Wongsawat, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, in June 2026, which helped further strengthen bilateral cooperation in higher education, science, research, innovation, and advanced technologies, while fostering closer collaboration among government agencies, academic institutions, and the private sectors of both countries.

The Deputy Prime Minister commended the important role of Dutch businesses in contributing to investment and economic development in Thailand, and welcomed the Netherlands’ continued position as the largest investor in Thailand among European Union member states, reflecting the strength of the two countries’ economic partnership. Ambassador Van Wijngaarden noted the considerable potential for further Dutch investment in strategic sectors important to Thailand, particularly the semiconductor industry. Both sides also exchanged views on regional developments, with the Deputy Prime Minister sharing Thailand’s perspectives on the Thailand - Cambodia situation, as well as developments in Myanmar.

Afterwards, Mrs. Eksiri Pintaruchi, Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs, hosted a working dinner in honour of Ambassador Van Wijngaarden, where she expressed her appreciation for the Ambassador’s close friendship and cooperation throughout his tenure.