Between 2 - 4 March 2025, H.E. Mr. Maris Sangiampongsa, Minister of Foreign Affairs, paid an official visit to the State of Qatar and had a bilateral discussion with H.E. Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Qatar. The visit aimed to express appreciation for Qatar’s support in negotiations and coordination efforts leading to the release of Thai nationals in Gaza, as well as to explore potential areas for bilateral cooperation.

1. Release of Thai Nationals in Gaza

The Minister of Foreign Affairs extended his profound appreciation to the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Qatar for the Qatar’s crucial role in facilitating negotiations and ongoing coordination efforts that led to the release of all 28 Thai nationals in Gaza. He also sought Qatar’s continued support in securing the release of the one remaining Thai hostage and the retrieval of the bodies of two deceased Thai hostages to be returned to Thailand in due course.

In response, the Qatari side expressed satisfaction that the Thai nationals had been safely released and returned home and reaffirmed its full commitment to assisting with the remaining Thai hostage situation.

2. Strengthening Bilateral Relations

This visit marked a significant occasion as Thailand and Qatar celebrate the 45th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2025. Both sides discussed ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation in three key areas:

1. Food Security – Thailand expressed its readiness to share its expertise in agricultural technology with Qatar.

2. Energy Security – Emphasis was placed on cooperation in the transition towards clean energy (green transition).

3. Human Security – Cooperation in public health, education, and tourism was explored to promote sustainable economic and cultural opportunities for both countries.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand extended an invitation to the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Qatar to pay an official visit to Thailand and co-chair the 1st Thailand-Qatar High Joint Commission (HJC), a key mechanism for driving bilateral cooperation toward tangible outcomes.

Additionally, the Minister met with H.E. Sultan bin Saad Al-Muraikhi, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of Qatar. Both sides exchanged views on regional developments in the Middle East, including the status of the ceasefire agreement and the hostage exchange negotiations between Israel and Hamas. Following their discussions, the two Ministers attended the signing ceremony of the Agreement on the Exemption of Visa Requirements for Holders of Diplomatic, Official, and Special Passports between Thailand and Qatar.

This agreement will facilitate official visits and further enhance bilateral relations between the two countries.