Phuket and the Netherlands strengthen ties over tourism and traffic
H.E. Remco van Wijngaarden, Ambassador of the Netherlands to Thailand, met with Phuket Vice Governor Samawit Suphanphai at Phuket Provincial Hall, alongside Sven Smolders, Honorary Consul for the Netherlands in southern Thailand. The gathering highlighted a shared commitment to bolstering ties through tourism, infrastructure development, and citizen welfare.
With 500 Dutch nationals residing in Phuket and over 250,000 Dutch tourists flocking to Thailand annually, Ambassador van Wijngaarden praised Phuket’s hospitality.
“The province has long been a beloved destination for Dutch visitors and residents. Your care for our citizens does not go unnoticed.”
Discussions touched on pivotal issues, including airport expansion, public transport, and support for vulnerable groups like the elderly and children. The ambassador was keen to learn about infrastructure management as Phuket braces for an influx of tourists.
Vice Governor Samawit highlighted efforts to upgrade infrastructure, including plans to expand Phuket International Airport.
“We prioritise the welfare of all foreigners, ensuring their legal protections and improving care for all age groups.”
However, traffic congestion remains a sticking point. Smolders, who has called Phuket home for 17 years, acknowledged the province’s rapid growth but urged officials to tackle its gridlock woes head-on.
Key agencies, including the Phuket Provincial Police and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), also contributed insights, underscoring a commitment to sustainable growth, reported Phuket News.
“The meeting reflected a shared vision to strengthen ties and ensure Phuket’s development meets the needs of its diverse population and international visitors.”
In related news, Australian Ambassador to Thailand Angela McDonald visited Phuket on Thursday, November 28, to engage in discussions with Vice Governor Ronnarong Thipsiri. The meeting focused on strengthening economic, political, and safety ties between Australia and Phuket, underscoring the importance of maintaining robust bilateral relations.
In other news, in a groundbreaking move to tackle tourist road accidents in Thailand, 7-Eleven is stepping up its game. CP All CEO Yuthasak Poomsurakul announced a partnership between 7-Eleven, the Tourist Police Bureau, and the British Embassy to launch a road safety campaign aimed at international visitors.
