Foreign Minister Sihasak revealed that he has contacted Russia to purchase oil, with Russia ready to sell. He emphasized accelerating talks with Brazil, Nigeria, and Kazakhstan. Regarding assistance for the three crew members of the Mayurinarie, Iran has promised to help with the search.
On 17 March 2026, Mr. Sihasak Puangketkaew, Minister of Foreign Affairs, who was en route to Vienna, Austria, to attend the Global Fraud Summit at the Vienna International Center from 16-17 March 2026, spoke about coordinating with various countries to find new energy or fuel sources. He stated the government has oil reserves for 95-100 days, but due to the high uncertainty of the conflict, the Prime Minister sees the need to seek oil from other sources willing to sell to Thailand.
Mr. Sihasak stated: "We have contacted Russia, and Russia is ready to sell. Especially now that the United States has relaxed sanctions, ships that have already departed ports can sell to various countries." Additionally, contacts have been made with Brazil, Nigeria, and Kazakhstan among several countries. Ultimately, relevant agencies like the Ministry of Energy must engage in detailed discussions.
Regarding progress in assisting the three Thai crew members still aboard the Mayurinarie, Mr. Sihasak emphasized that he has spoken by phone with Iran's Foreign Minister to coordinate assistance. The Iranian minister expressed regret over the Mayurinarie incident but noted that such maritime situations should not occur. He promised to assist in searching for the three Thai crew members in coordination with the Iranian navy, though operations depend on the ongoing combat situation. Coordination has also been made with Oman to liaise with the Iranian navy, and the Thai navy has been urged to maintain contact with its Iranian counterpart.
Concerning discussions with two members of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Mr. Sihasak said he called Bahrain and the UAE to express concern about the situation, as both countries are affected by the war. He stated that Thailand wants peace to return and opposes violence and war, which should not occur. Diplomatic efforts through negotiation are necessary. Given the escalating situation, all parties should help reduce the violence and retaliation. Thailand reaffirms support for peace, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of all regional countries, especially those uninvolved in the conflict but affected, including the UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, and Lebanon. These countries appreciated Thailand's stance, and Thailand is grateful for facilitating Thai citizens' return via the UAE through Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Thai nationals have started returning from Kuwait, Bahrain, and Qatar, mostly traveling through Saudi Arabia. Safety concerns remain, but many countries can ensure security. If more Thai citizens wish to return, Thailand will arrange evacuations.