This year, Thailand is aggressively pursuing free trade and visa-waiver agreements with the European Union.

Minister Jakkapong Sangmanee of the Prime Minister’s Office stressed that a free trade agreement will accelerate economic growth for both sides.

He emphasized that removing the need for a visa for Thai nationals visiting the EU will facilitate people-to-people exchanges and streamline Schengen Area admission.

The Nation reports that Jakkapong said that Thailand had already held discussions in September and January of this year on a free trade pact with the EU. June is when the talks are scheduled to resume.

Jakkapong pointed out that a trade agreement that promotes trade without undue red tape is necessary, seeing it as advantageous for both Thailand and the EU.

The possibility for more growth through a free trade deal was highlighted by EU Ambassador to Thailand David Daly, who pointed out that weekly bilateral trade had surpassed €1 billion.

Daly did not provide an official comment regarding the visa exemption.

Thailand has asked EU members for assistance in obtaining visa-free access to the Schengen Area. Thai Deputy Secretary Nathapol Khantahiran asked Czechia for help in accomplishing this objective in March.

Citing the benefits of improved Thai-EU relations, Khantahiran underlined the significance of allowing entrance without a visa for brief visits.

In a similar vein, French President Emmanuel Macron was asked to approve a visa waiver accord by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin.

Macron reaffirmed France’s support for the accord, expressing optimism that Thai nationals will soon be able to enter the Schengen Area without a visa.