PHUKET, Thailand – July 9, 2026 – At 11:00 a.m., at Nai Yang Beach Resort & Spa in Thalang District, Phuket, H.E. Mr. Pham Viet Hung, Ambassador of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam to the Kingdom of Thailand, together with Mr. Thanes Tantipiriyakij, Honorary Consul of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam in Phuket, presided over the official inauguration ceremony of the Honorary Consulate of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam in Phuket.

Representing the Governor of Phuket, Mr. Chotenarin Kerdsom, Mr. Romdon Haya-awe, Vice Governor of Phuket, attended the ceremony as an official witness and extended congratulations on behalf of the province. Also present were Mr. Adul Chuthong, Vice Governor of Songkhla; Mr. Bancha Thanun-in, Vice Governor of Phang Nga; Ms. Khanathip Sukcharoen, Vice Governor of Ranong; honorary consuls representing various countries in Phuket; officials from government agencies and the private sector; members of the media; and numerous distinguished guests.

On the occasion, Ambassador Pham Viet Hung stated that the establishment of the Honorary Consulate of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam in Phuket, whose consular jurisdiction covers the provinces of Phuket, Phang Nga, Krabi, Trang, Satun, Ranong, Songkhla, and Surat Thani, represents a significant milestone in strengthening relations between Vietnam and Thailand.

He noted that the inauguration comes at a meaningful time as both countries prepare to celebrate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations, highlighting the continued growth of bilateral cooperation.

The Ambassador emphasized that Phuket and Southern Thailand play a strategic role as regional gateways for tourism, commerce, and transportation within ASEAN. He also pointed to the launch of Vietnam Airlines’ direct service between Ho Chi Minh City and Phuket on July 2, which is expected to further stimulate tourism, trade, investment, and people-to-people exchanges between the two nations.

Mr. Thanes Tantipiriyakij expressed his deep appreciation for the trust placed in him by the Government of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam in appointing him as Honorary Consul in Phuket, with responsibility for eight southern provinces of Thailand.

He pledged to carry out his duties with integrity and dedication, serving as a bridge to strengthen the longstanding friendship between Vietnam and Thailand while promoting cooperation in economic development, trade, investment, tourism, education, cultural exchange, and people-to-people relations.

He also affirmed his commitment to facilitating consular services and safeguarding the interests and welfare of Vietnamese nationals residing within the consular jurisdiction.

Speaking on behalf of Phuket Province, Mr. Romdon Haya-awe, Vice Governor of Phuket, expressed the province’s delight at the establishment of the Honorary Consulate, describing it as another important step in deepening relations between Thailand and the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, particularly as both countries approach the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties.

He also welcomed the launch of the direct flight connecting Ho Chi Minh City and Phuket, noting that it will significantly enhance tourism, trade, and investment while creating new opportunities for broader cooperation between Phuket and Vietnam in areas including economic development, education, culture, and people-to-people exchanges.

Mr. Romdon expressed confidence that the Honorary Consulate would become an important center for fostering lasting friendship and sustainable cooperation between Thailand and Vietnam in the years ahead.

Photos & News: Phuket Provincial Public Relations Office