Thailand will not tolerate lawbreaking by foreigners of any nationality, PM tells Israeli ambassador

BANGKOK – Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has reaffirmed that Thailand welcomes tourists from all countries without discrimination, but will not tolerate violations of Thai law by foreigners of any nationality, stressing that the law will be enforced equally and without exception.

Anutin made the remarks during a meeting with Alona Fisher-Kamm, Israel’s newly appointed ambassador to Thailand, at Government House on Monday (9 November), where the two discussed bilateral relations and opportunities to expand cooperation.

Addressing issues concerning Israeli tourists in Thailand, Anutin said the country remained a popular destination for Israeli visitors and that the Thai government was committed to welcoming tourists of all nationalities equally.

He stressed that Thailand would not discriminate against individuals on the basis of race, religion or nationality, while ensuring the safety of foreign visitors.

However, the prime minister made clear that Thailand would not allow any foreign national, regardless of nationality, to violate its laws.

He emphasised that Thai authorities would enforce the law equally, without exceptions, and that all tourists were expected to respect local laws, regulations and cultural practices.

Anutin said these principles were essential to ensuring peaceful coexistence and promoting mutual understanding between foreign visitors and local communities.

The Israeli ambassador, for her part, expressed her readiness to work with Thai authorities to improve Israeli nationals’ understanding of Thailand’s laws, regulations and culture.

She said such cooperation would help prevent misunderstandings and strengthen relations between the peoples of the two countries.

Thailand and Israel seek closer cooperation

During the meeting, both sides welcomed the 72nd anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and Israel and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties.

Discussions focused on expanding cooperation in technology and innovation, agriculture, labour, cybersecurity and healthcare.

Anutin thanked the Israeli government for its support and care for more than 70,000 Thai workers in Israel.

He reiterated that protecting the rights, welfare and safety of Thai workers remained a priority for his government, which would continue coordinating closely with Israeli authorities to ensure appropriate support.

The prime minister also praised Israel’s research and development capabilities, particularly in semiconductors, advanced software, cybersecurity and emergency medicine for patients with severe injuries.

He noted that the two countries were already cooperating on medical personnel training, helping strengthen the knowledge and capabilities of Thai healthcare professionals.

Both sides expressed their readiness to pursue closer cooperation and deliver concrete outcomes from their bilateral partnership.

Anutin concluded by reaffirming Thailand’s commitment to maintaining positive relations with all countries based on mutual respect, equality and respect for the law.