Thailand joins global push for safe passage in Strait of Hormuz

Thailand joined 51 countries in a virtual meeting on maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz, highlighting international concern over safe navigation in the key shipping route, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow appointed Thailand’s ambassador to France, Nikorndej Balankura, to represent the country at the two-day talks, starting on April 17.

The meeting was co-chaired by the President of France, Emmanuel Macron, and Keir Starmer, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, bringing together representatives from 51 countries across the Middle East, South Asia, the Indo-Pacific, and the European Union, along with the International Maritime Organization and North Atlantic Treaty Organization.

According to the ministry, participants expressed unified support for a ceasefire and emphasized the need for sustainable conflict resolution through diplomatic means.

Furthermore, they reaffirmed the principle of unrestricted freedom of navigation through the strategic waterway and stressed compliance with international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

The meeting also highlighted concerns over the broader impact of tensions in the Strait of Hormuz on the global economy, including food and energy security, fertilizer supplies, trade, and shipping.

These points were also raised by ASEAN foreign ministers during their special meeting on developments in the Middle East last week. Three Thai crew members were also killed when the Thai cargo ship Mayuree Nari was attacked during the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

In addition, delegates called on institutions such as the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank to provide support to low-income countries affected by the crisis.

Officials stressed the urgency of ensuring the safety of more than 20,000 seafarers and over 2,000 commercial vessels currently stranded in the area. Discussions also included preparations for a potential international naval task force to conduct defensive operations, protect commercial shipping, and clear underwater mines in the Strait of Hormuz.

The United States did not attend the meeting, which was limited to non-belligerent countries. Other in-person attendees included Friedrich Merz and Giorgia Meloni, while others joined virtually.