Thailand has expressed a growing interest in Russia’s energy offerings, notably liquefied natural gas and coal, a stance voiced in an interview with RIA News by the Thai Ambassador to Moscow, Sasivat Wongsinsawat.
In explaining possibilities for collaboration, the diplomat pointed to several sectors where joint work could thrive, with energy being a central pillar. He highlighted liquefied natural gas and coal as concrete examples where Thailand sees potential, expressing optimism about expanding bilateral trade flows and strengthening economic ties between the two nations.
Wongsinsawat stressed that both Moscow and Bangkok are united in the goal of deepening energy cooperation. Yet he underscored that the pace and scope of any agreement depend on forthcoming negotiations between energy, logistics, and resource companies from both countries, whose discussions will shape concrete contracts and long-term commitments.
The ambassador noted Thailand’s heavy reliance on energy imports and conveyed a readiness to finalize deals, provided that the price and supply terms for Russian energy resources remain competitive and reliable for the Thai market and its energy security needs.
Earlier reports indicated that Russian Railways (RZD) had reached agreements with various Russian regions to export approximately 100 million tons of coal in the upcoming year, targeting shipments to eastern destinations. This logistical push signals a broader effort to align regional production with international demand, potentially easing supply routes for Thailand should commercial terms be favorable.
At the end of December, Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak was cited as noting that the first liquefied natural gas shipment from Novatek’s Arctic LNG 2 facility was anticipated in the first quarter of 2024, marking a significant milestone in Russia’s Arctic gas development and its ability to diversify export routes to Asia and beyond.
Additionally, it was reported earlier that the United States planned to cut its income from Russia’s energy resources by about half, a development that would reframe the global energy landscape and could influence how regional buyers like Thailand assess supplier options and market dynamics in the near term.