[Spain]: Message for Thailand

[Zak]

Government of Spain
Security Classification: ENCRYPTED​

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Dear Republic of Thailand Embassy,

The Ambassador has been summoned to appear before the Minister of Foreign Affairs immediately at the headquarters of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs here in Madrid. The Minister of Foreign Affairs has requested your presence for an important discussion regarding matters of high diplomatic importance that require immediate attention.

Your presence at this meeting is of utmost importance, and I trust that you will prioritize attending this summons. Your valuable insights and contributions will greatly assist us in formulating effective strategies and strengthening bilateral ties between our nations. Failure to attend this summoned meeting may result in further diplomatic action being taken.

Kind Regards,
Martina Sabaté
Ministry of Foreign Affairs Chief of Staff
Kingdom of Spain

Bossza007

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[Bossza007]

The Republic Thai Embassy in Madrid, Spain, would send the appropriate message back to the Spanish Foreign Minister on a secure and reliable channel to acknowledge their request. At the moment, it was 10 in the Morning, local time. The Thai Ambassador would be made aware of the impending meeting with the Spanish Foreign Minister at his office. He was in his final, black attire, where the signature blue color of the Thai Foreign Affairs emblem was etched on his chest along with his golden name. In compliance with the diplomatic protocol, the Thai Ambassador, Mr. Nattapong Suwanpakdee, whether the Spanish Government would like the Thai ambassador to travel by himself or in convoy. He would travel to the Foreign Ministry of Spain to meet with the Spanish Minister afterward.

Zak

 

[Zak]

Upon leaving the Thai Embassy, the Ambassador would be escorted by two patrol vehicles from the Civil Guard all the way to the headquarters of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs headquarters where once inside the building would go through a security scanner and all being well, he would be escorted by a junior staffer to the office of the Minister and would be gestured inside where the Minister was sat at his table. The Minister had a look on his face and it was a look that he was not impressed in the slightest. Water and snacks had been placed on the table prior to the arrival of the Ambassador and the Minister poured him a glass of water.

"Ambassador, thank you for your prompt arrival. I hope your morning has been well? How is things at the embassy?"

Bossza007

 

[Bossza007]

Ambassador Nattapong, embodying the grace and respect characteristic of Thai diplomacy, expressed his gratitude to the drivers, civil guards, and other personnel who facilitated his journey. His demeanor towards the Spanish junior staffer was a blend of courtesy and humility, reflecting the deep-rooted values of Thai culture. Upon reaching the office of the Spanish Foreign Minister, he expressed his thanks with a respectful bow.

As he entered the room, Nattapong extended a polite handshake to Minister Sabaté, his posture radiating both politeness and openness. Trained to be perceptive and tactful, Nattapong quickly discerned the Minister's less-than-enthusiastic mood and adjusted his approach accordingly.

Settling into the discussion with composure, he initiated the dialogue in flawless Spanish, conveying both his linguistic prowess and his deep respect for the host nation's culture. "I'm honored to be here, Minister Sabaté," he began, smiling warmly. "Recently, we faced a minor health challenge during a cultural event. Thankfully, our cooperation with local health authorities has been effective, and I personally have tested negative for influenza." His tone was light, yet sincere.

Observing the Minister's demeanor, Nattapong tactfully addressed the elephant in the room. "I sense some urgency in our meeting today," he said, his smile softening into an expression of concern. "If there are any pressing issues or concerns you wish to discuss, I'm here to listen and understand. Please, feel free to share your thoughts with me." His invitation for dialogue was genuine, a testament to his diplomatic skill and empathy.

Zak

 

[Zak]

"Ambassador Nattapong, I absolutely hold you in high regard, you're an excellent diplomat and I want you to pass on these meeting notes to your Prime Minister so that he does consider Spanish and Thai relations in the future. Spain is furious about the Thai Navy operating in the Mediterranean Sea without your government informing us prior to knowing you was doing such a thing, such an issue has ignited a sense of anger and frustration in the hearts of the Spanish people.

First and foremost, Spain recognizes and respects the rights of sovereign nations to navigate and conduct operations in international waters. However, operating in the Mediterranean Sea without notifying us prior is disrespectful. The Mediterranean Sea holds great significance for Spain, not only due to our geographical proximity but also because it plays a crucial role in our economy, security, and cultural heritage. It is a shared space where nations must come together, fostering trust, cooperation, and transparent communication.

Hence, we find it deeply unsettling that an esteemed government like Thailand's did not extend the courtesy of informing us about their presence and operations near our national waters. Such actions undermine the principles of mutual respect, open dialogue, and collaboration among nations that seek to ensure peace and stability in maritime regions.

We believe that every country has the right to protect its interests, but doing so should not come at the expense of jeopardizing the trust and relationships we have built amongst our countries."

Bossza007

 

[Bossza007]

Ambassador Nattapong, embodying the essence of diplomatic grace, lent a keen ear to the Spanish Foreign Minister's concerns about the Thai Navy's Middle East Command operations in the Mediterranean. With thoughtful nods, he conveyed deep respect for the Minister and the Spanish perspective, subtly weaving a tapestry of understanding between the two nations. “Minister Sabaté,” he began, his voice reflecting both immense appreciation and diplomatic assertiveness. “Your forthright and lucid expression of concerns is highly valued by Thailand. We fully acknowledge the significance of the Mediterranean to Spain, both in its rich cultural heritage and its economic interdependencies.” He paused, ensuring his next words carried the weight of his nation’s position. “Yet, I must respectfully present Thailand's stance,” Nattapong continued, his tone clear and unwavering. “Prior to the launch of Operation Mediterranean I, the Thai Republic Navy meticulously informed not just the Spanish Government, but all Mediterranean-bordering nations, detailing our operational plans. Through official channels, we sought the perspectives of Mediterranean nations, openly inviting any concerns to be voiced through appropriate diplomatic avenues.” He maintained a balance of assertiveness and respect, embodying Thailand's commitment to transparent communication while firmly defending his nation's actions. His words were a bridge, seeking to link the shared waters of understanding between Thailand and Spain.

Ambassador Nattapong conveyed Thailand's position with a clarity that reflected both respect and a hint of somber realism. "Thailand harbors deep respect for Spain and all nations worldwide, viewing each as inherently equal," he began, his voice carrying the weight of his country's earnest diplomatic efforts. "Our government has been tirelessly working to bridge the gap between East and West. While not entirely successful, this endeavor cannot be attributed solely to our efforts." He continued, his tone embodying Thailand's commitment to international diplomacy. "The Foreign Affairs Ministry, especially our European Division, has been fervently reaching out to European governments. Out of over a hundred correspondences sent, only a fraction received responses. For example, despite our repeated diplomatic overtures to Portugal and the United Kingdom, we received no acknowledgment." His voice tinged with disappointment, not for Thailand's sake, but for the missed opportunities of mutual understanding. "We don't take this lack of response as a personal slight, nor do we intend to leverage it against European nations. However, it's crucial to recognize that such communication gaps contribute significantly to Europe's growing isolation from the global community." His sigh, brief yet poignant, underscored the gravity of his message.

Zak

 

[Zak]

Martina Sabaté sat patiently and listened to the reply from the Thai Ambassador, she made her point clear that she was not a minister but simply a high ranking official within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and received permission to speak to the Thai Ambassador from the Minister of Foreign Affairs who was tending to other business.

"We cannot control foreign policy in Spain or the United Kingdom. We received no prior mention to your countries operations, just a line to voice any concerns we may have about Thai patrol activities in the Mediterranean Sea and a reach-out about an intelligence-sharing program during your operations in the Mediterranean Sea. Next time you plan to patrol these waters, we would like details sent to us before your planned arrival Ambassador. These waters are, as I have previously mentioned, have a significant value for Spain, not only due to our geographical proximity but also because it plays a crucial role in our economy, security, and cultural heritage."

Bossza007

 

[Bossza007]

The Thai Ambassador, poised with a blend of understanding and firmness, addressed the Spanish official. "I fully grasp your perspective, yet it's crucial to acknowledge the facts. The Republic Navy had diligently shared all pertinent details of the operation months ago, aligning with our steadfast commitment to transparency and international diplomacy," he began, his tone both respectful and assertive.

"As the representative of Thailand, I stand ready to affirm our thoroughness in providing up-to-date information. But, let's consider the possibility of a miscommunication or loss of information. While I by no means imply fault on your end, we are prepared to resend the details," he continued, embodying a spirit of cooperation.

He shifted slightly, signaling a transition in his discourse. "In the meantime, our carrier strike group in the Mediterranean has redirected from its patrol to engage in routine maritime activities outside the region. Rest assured, a comprehensive report will reach your government shortly." His words were measured, conveying a balance between defending Thailand's position and extending an olive branch to ensure ongoing diplomatic harmony.

Zak

 

[Zak]

Upon the conclusion of the Ambassador's remarks, the Chief of Staff pressed a button on her desk in which a Civil Guard protective agent entered the room as the Chief of Staff smiled and shared her final remarks as the meeting concluded. The Civil Guard agent gestured for the Ambassador to follow him to the exit where the Ambassador could continue with his duties.

Bossza007