A solemn ceremony marking the official opening of the Consulate of the Republic of Kazakhstan was held on the island of Phuket. The event became a landmark moment in the development of Kazakh-Thai relations and an important step toward strengthening diplomatic, economic, cultural, and tourism cooperation between the two countries, DKNews.kz reports.
The opening of the Consulate in Phuket carries special significance. It is the third official diplomatic mission established on the island, highlighting the high level of mutual trust and the growing intensity of bilateral relations. Kazakhstan continues to systematically expand its diplomatic presence abroad, with a strong focus on providing practical support and protection for its citizens.
A Consulate with broad regional coverage
The consular district of the newly opened mission covers 14 southern provinces of Thailand, making it a key center of engagement in the country’s southern regions. This wide territorial scope will allow for more effective protection of the rights and legitimate interests of Kazakh citizens, ensure prompt assistance in emergency situations, and support the development of tourism, business, and cultural ties.
The Consulate is expected to become an important point of contact for Kazakhstanis living in or visiting southern Thailand.
High-level participation at the opening ceremony
The official ceremony was attended by Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand Vijavat Isarabhakdi, Governor of Phuket Province Nirat Pongsitthaworn, senior officials from Thailand’s southern provinces, representatives of local authorities, members of the diplomatic corps, the Kazakh diaspora, business communities, tourism associations, and media representatives.
Speaking at the event, Ambassador of Kazakhstan Margulan Baimukhan described the opening of the Consulate as a practical confirmation of the trusting and friendly relations between Kazakhstan and Thailand.
“Phuket has long become an important destination for citizens of Kazakhstan. The opening of the Consulate allows us to be closer to our people, protect their rights and interests, provide timely assistance, and at the same time expand comprehensive cooperation with Thailand’s southern regions,” the Ambassador noted.
Thailand views Kazakhstan as a key partner
Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand Vijavat Isarabhakdi emphasized the steady and progressive development of Thai-Kazakh relations and described the opening of the Consulate as a practical step reflecting the dynamic nature of bilateral cooperation.
“Kazakhstan is an important partner of Thailand in Central Asia. The opening of the Consulate in Phuket will contribute to the further development of cooperation in tourism, trade, investment, and humanitarian exchanges,” he said.
Phuket Governor Nirat Pongsitthaworn also highlighted Kazakhstan’s role as a reliable partner and expressed confidence that the new Consulate would give fresh momentum to tourism, trade, and cultural exchanges.
“We warmly welcome the opening of the Consulate of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Phuket. This event will strengthen ties between our peoples and open new opportunities for cooperation,” the Governor stated.
Culture as part of diplomacy
The ceremonial program featured performances on the dombra, whose distinctive sound captured the attention of guests and created an atmosphere of cultural dialogue. Visitors were also treated to traditional Kazakh dishes, offering them a closer look at Kazakhstan’s rich historical and culinary heritage.
Phuket - a key destination for Kazakhstanis
Phuket is one of Southeast Asia’s leading tourism hubs and among the world’s most popular international travel destinations. Thailand welcomes around 35 million foreign tourists annually, with approximately 12 million visiting Phuket. In 2025 alone, about 200,000 citizens of Kazakhstan traveled to Thailand.
The consular district of the Consulate of Kazakhstan in Phuket includes 14 southern provinces of the Kingdom of Thailand: Chumphon, Krabi, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Narathiwat, Pattani, Phang Nga, Phatthalung, Phuket, Ranong, Satun, Songkhla, Surat Thani, Trang, and Yala.
The opening of the Consulate in Phuket once again confirms the commitment of Kazakhstan and Thailand to deepening their partnership, expanding people-to-people ties, and developing multifaceted cooperation that serves the interests of citizens of both countries.
