Foreign Minister Sihasak revealed ongoing negotiations with Russia, which is ready to sell oil to Thailand, and is accelerating talks with Brazil, Nigeria, and Kazakhstan. Regarding assistance for the three Thai crew members aboard the Mayurinari ship, Iran has promised to help with the search.
On 17 Mar 2026 GMT+7, Mr. Sihasak Puangketkaew, Minister of Foreign Affairs, who was en route to Vienna, Austria, to attend the Global Fraud Summit at the Vienna International Centre on 16-17 Mar 2026 GMT+7, spoke about coordination with various countries to find new energy or fuel sources. He said the government currently holds oil reserves for 95-100 days, but due to the high uncertainty of the conflict, the Prime Minister believes that if oil can be sourced elsewhere, they should explore where sellers are willing to supply Thailand. They have contacted Russia, which is ready to sell oil to Thailand, especially as the U.S. has relaxed sanctions allowing ships leaving ports to sell to various countries. They have also reached out to Brazil, Nigeria, and Kazakhstan, contacting multiple sources. Ultimately, relevant agencies like the Ministry of Energy will need to discuss the details further.
Regarding progress on assisting the three remaining Thai crew members aboard the Mayurinari, Minister Sihasak emphasized that he had a phone discussion with Iran’s Foreign Minister to coordinate aid. The Iranian Foreign Minister expressed regret over the Mayurinari incident but noted that such navigation should not have occurred. He promised to assist in searching for the three Thai crew members in cooperation with the Iranian Navy, though the ongoing conflict affects the situation. Coordination has also been made with Oman to liaise with the Iranian Navy, and the Royal Thai Navy has been asked to contact the Iranian Navy as well.
Concerning talks with two members of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Minister Sihasak said he called Bahrain and the UAE to express concern over the situation, as both countries have been affected by the war. This also conveyed Thailand’s position supporting peace, opposing violence, and asserting that war should not occur; diplomatic efforts through negotiation are necessary. Given the escalating conflict, he urged all parties to help reduce violence and retaliation. Thailand reaffirmed its support for peace, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of all countries in the region, especially those not involved in the war but affected, such as the UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, and Lebanon. These countries appreciated Thailand’s stance and thanked Thailand for facilitating the return of Thai nationals via the UAE through Dubai and Abu Dhabi. For those returning to Thailand, flights have begun from Kuwait, Bahrain, and Qatar, with most traveling through Saudi Arabia. There is concern for safety, but many countries are capable of providing security. If more Thais wish to return, Thailand will seek ways to evacuate them.