The Cabinet approved a draft exchange of letters between Thailand and the Netherlands, opening the way for the Netherlands to purchase land in Ruamrudee Soi, Pathumwan district, to use as its new ambassador's residence, based on reciprocity principles and to enhance diplomatic relations.
On 12 May 2026 GMT+7, Ms. Lalida Pertwivatana, Deputy Spokesperson of the Prime Minister's Office, revealed that the Cabinet considered and approved a draft exchange of letters between the Government of the Kingdom of Thailand and the Government of the Kingdom of the Netherlands concerning the purchase of land and buildings to be used as the new residence of the Netherlands' ambassador to Thailand.
The Deputy Spokesperson stated that the Netherlands Embassy had expressed its intention to purchase two plots of land with buildings, totaling 3 ngan 75.2 square wah (about 1,500 square meters), located in Ruamrudee Soi, Lumphini subdistrict, Pathumwan district, Bangkok, to serve as the new ambassador's residence, suitable for current diplomatic mission needs.
Currently, since the Government of the Netherlands already holds ownership of more than 15 rai of land in Thailand, any additional land purchases require Cabinet approval on a case-by-case basis, according to criteria previously established by the Cabinet.
The key points of the draft exchange of letters define the rights to acquire ownership of land, buildings, and condominium units for use as residences or offices of each party’s embassies and/or consulates, along with exemptions from taxes, fees, and related charges, all based on the principle of reciprocity.
Relevant agencies, including the Treasury Department, Department of Public Works and Town & Country Planning, Department of Lands, Department of Provincial Administration, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, and Royal Thai Police, have reviewed and raised no objections, noting that the location is suitable for an ambassador’s residence with good security measures and no significant issues concerning ownership or encumbrances on the land.
Ms. Lalida said this action will enable the Netherlands Embassy to adjust its facilities in line with diplomatic mission duties, while Thailand will receive reciprocal benefits should it wish to own additional real estate in the Netherlands in the future.
“This is a diplomatic operation grounded in law, appropriateness, and mutual benefit, reflecting the stable progress of Thai–Netherlands relations based on trust and reciprocal practice,” she said.