Thailand to Ukraine | Bilateral Relationship

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To: <Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Ukraine> Cyclonic From: <Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Socialist Republic of Thailand> Subject: Strengthening Thai Ukrainian Ties Security Type: NSST 1.5 Architecture | Secret and Encrypted

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Minister Kostyantyn Hryshchenko,

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Socialist Republic of Thailand extends its warm greetings to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Ukraine. Our nations share a history of deep cooperation since the fall of the United Nations, and the confederal Thai government desires to continue our productive partnership.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand proposes an official visit by the Director-General of the Department of European Affairs to the Republic of Ukraine. She and her delegation will lead Thailand’s initiative to engage in a comprehensive and transparent high-level dialogue with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine. The goal is to discuss our countries’ relationship and avenues for cooperation based on mutual interests and the prosperity of our people.​

Sincerely,

Surakiart Sathirathai
Minister of Foreign Affairs
Confederal Government
Republic of Thailand

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Digital Diplomatic Communication​

 

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To: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand (Bossza007)

From: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine

CC: Ministry of Finance; Ministry of Defence; Administration of the President

Subject: RE: Strengthening Thai Ukrainian Ties

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Minister Surakiart Sathirathai,

I would like to first reaffirm our commitment to the strong and prosperous bond between our two countries. We would be honoured and pleased to have the opportunity to receive your delegation as soon as possible. I will personally lead our delegation, and representatives from the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Administration of the President will be present, to ensure that we can have productive and meaningful discussions on any topic raised.

As for the administrative arrangements, you will be cordially received at Boryspil International Airport, where a motorcade will be waiting to take you to 1 Mykhailivska Square, Kyiv, where the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is located. The Rapid Operational Response Unit of the National Police will provide security throughout your visit, and there will be an increased police presence at the Thai Embassy and your chosen place of accommodation. You may provide your own security, provided that detailed information on the number of security personnel and weapons carried is provided to the National Police beforehand.

Yours sincerely,
Kostyantyn Hryshchenko
Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine

 

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To: <Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Ukraine> From: <Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Socialist Republic of Thailand> Subject: RE: RE: Strengthening Thai Ukrainian Ties Security Type: NSST 1.5 Architecture | Secret and Encrypted

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Minister Kostyantyn Hryshchenko,

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand is pleased to learn that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine has accepted our proposal. We are honored that representatives from the Ukrainian Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Defense, and the Administration of the President will be present during the high-level dialogue. Such a commitment speaks volumes about the seriousness Ukraine puts into our bilateral relations, and Thailand appreciates it profoundly.

Director-General Panthipha Iamsuttha Ekarohit and her delegation will rely on the Ukrainian security service. Thailand believes in the capacity of local law enforcement and our partners’ ability to ensure a peaceful landscape during the official visit. We would appreciate it if the Ukrainian government could provide a place of accommodation for our delegation in case of prolonged bilateral dialogue. The confederal Thai government will cover any expenditure if needed. Furthermore, ‘The Internationale’ is the national anthem of Thailand if there is any ceremony at the airport.​

Sincerely,

Surakiart Sathirathai
Minister of Foreign Affairs
Confederal Government
Republic of Thailand

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Digital Diplomatic Communication​

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Director-General Panthipha Iamsuttha Ekarohit would lead a Thai delegation to conduct an official visit to the Republic of Ukraine. Thailand has always maintained close relationships with its European partners; Ukraine is yet another ally they found mutual interests in the past. Being in charge of European affairs, Panthipha strategizes Thailand’s policies toward Europe pragmatically despite the ideological chasm. This visit was another test for the Department of European Affairs, whether they could continue another vital relationship with a pro-market nation in Europe.

The flight from Bangkok’s main international airport departed at seven in the evening. The charted Thai Airways Airbus A330-300 soared elegantly, fluttering its steel wings above the brightly lit Bangkok skylines. The Thai delegation focused on relaxation and leisure activities during the travel, knowing that they had conducted rigorous preparation. After eleven hours of flying, the Thai airplane landed at Boryspil International Airport. Thai staff would coordinate with local authorities regarding a detailed schedule before the Director-General would leave the plane alongside her delegation.

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Immediately after receiving the Thai response, the State Administration of Affairs would requisition the Mezhyhirya Residence for use by the Thai delegation. 5 buildings and its surrounding land, totalling some 5 acres, would be fenced off and turned temporarily into a diplomatic residence. Security would be provided by KORD, the Rapid Operational Response Unit.

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The Thai delegation was warmly welcomed at the airport by Minister Hryshchenko himself, along with representatives from the Finance Ministry and the Administration of the President. The Thai Ambassador to Ukraine was also invited.

"Welcome to Ukraine, Your Excellency," the Minister beamed, gesturing to an official standing beside him. "I can assure you that we have prepared extensively for your visit. A representative from the Finance Ministry will be present..." After introducing all the officials, and exchanging pleasantries about the weather and their flight Minister and the Director-General were led to their car by aides, while protection officers and operators from the Rapid Operational Response Unit stood guard nearby. Assorted journalists huddled together, taking photos and scribbling down what they would write up when they got back to the office.

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The sirens of the motorcade cut through the morning silence, wailing and then dissipating as quickly as it had come as it sped past observers. Thanks to the road closures the motorcade made it into the centre of Kyiv within an hour. The Minister was not one to make small talk, but was polite enough on the journey. He assured the Director-General that the Mezhyhirya Residence, where they would stay, was a beautiful resort, and they would be guaranteed tranquil peace and quiet throughout the visit.

At Mykhailivska Square, more officials would welcome them, including Yevhen Marchuk from the Administration of the President. They were led into a spacious conference room overlooking St. Michael's Golden-Domed Monastery- a beautiful view. The Thai delegates were led to one side of the table and the Ukrainians on the other.

"So, Your Excellency," the Minister began, "I think I can guess what is on the top of your agenda today. But please, to what do I owe the pleasure of meeting you?"

Meanwhile, the officials on either side of him began re-reading the briefing they had brought with them.

[UKRAINIAN EYES ONLY] Briefing on Thai-Ukrainian Relations

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BRIEFING ON THAI-UKRAINIAN RELATIONS

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Circulated to: Administration of the President; Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Ministry of Defence; Ministry of Finance; Ukrainian Embassy to Thailand; East Asian Desk, National Security and Defence Council

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** FOR UKRAINIAN EYES ONLY **​

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The following topics should be brought up for discussion at some point.

Situation in Türkiye
We should establish what Thailand's position on the situation in Türkiye is. Our public position is that democracy and the rule of law must be respected, but we must note that we have an interest in keeping the status quo in Türkiye, particularly if change is achieved through the use of force. Our military plans and assumptions used to create our foreign policy is based on there being a stable government in Türkiye, as it is one of the few buffers between Ukraine and the rest of the world. Instability in Türkiye would require us to play a bigger role in keeping peace in the Black Sea, which is expensive and not in our interest. Türkiye has hitherto guaranteed that our sea flank will never be threatened, albeit indirectly, and we must ensure that this state of affairs continues.

Defence Exports
It may be possible for us to receive some much-needed money, by selling some modern T-84s or T-64s. We should establish whether they are interested and, if so, the Ministry of Finance is prepared to procure them at whatever price is agreed upon. It may be in our interest to give them products at a loss, only after establishing that they are interested, to improve relations between our two countries.

This can only happen in a few months' time, but we can agree in principle to the deal and begin producing them, on the understanding that any payment will be due in a few months.

Cultural Exchange
Both Ukraine and Thailand have rich and varied histories, cultures and religions. We can take full advantage of this by, for example, setting up a Ukrainian school in Bangkok, welcoming Thai academics to the Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, and fast-tracking visas from and to both countries to increase tourism.

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Panthipha greeted the Ukrainian officials and the Thai Ambassador to Ukraine following her handshake with Foreign Minister Hryshchenko. “Thank you for your warm hospitality, Foreign Minister. It is a profound honor that I receive such extensive preparation for my delegation visit.” She smiled genuinely and followed the local staff’s guidance. An official photographer and a videographer from Thailand would capture each moment during the visit. The Thai director-general would politely talk with the Ukrainian Foreign Minister during the motorcade ride to minimize awkwardness originating from silence.

The entire proceeding was efficient from the Thai eyes, and they were already sitting inside a spacious conference room. After customary greetings, Panthipha would lead the Thai delegation’s representation. “Why, thank you so much again for such hospitality. On behalf of our confederacy and people, we sincerely appreciate it.” She smiled and paused to emphasize. “Of course, we have agendas on our side, which we seek to ground the dialogue based on mutual respect and interest. Thailand and Ukraine have had a fruitful partnership in the past, and the confederal government is keen to continue such collaboration.” The Thai side nodded in agreement.

“My delegation prefers to keep our dialogue frank and action-oriented, so please don’t mind our focus on today’s result. Thailand maintains an open border policy, and we would like to formalize a reciprocal visa arrangement with our partner worldwide. Do we rightly assume that the Ukrainian government might be interested in establishing a visa-on-arrival agreement with Thailand? We can start with a 30-day arrangement, but Thailand is open to providing Ukrainian passport holders with a 60-day privilege, even though it might not be reciprocal. Legitimate security concerns will arise, and Thailand can cooperate with intelligence sharing, such as notifying the Ukrainian authorities if former prisoners, crime suspects, or dangerous personalities will travel to your country. We can also formalize our rights to return or deny entry to undesirable individuals. Thailand has a recent successful arrangement of the same kind with our ally in Sweden.” She finished with a professional tone.

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"We are indeed looking to make it easier for citizens to travel to and from Ukraine. We would be happy to issue 30-day visas on arrival to Thai passport holders, but if it makes no difference to you then we would also be happy to increase that to 60 days for reciprocity; we are keen to treat all Thai passport holders in the same way as you treat our passport holders. As for intelligence sharing, we can have access to each others' criminal databases, which we can integrate into the database of the State Border Guard Service on our end, treating Thai criminals in the same way as Ukrainian criminals. We can also formalise an extradition treaty between our two countries; provided that it is a crime in both countries, and subject to your commitment to the rule of law and the right to a fair trial. We are happy to return, as you put it, "undesirable individuals"; but there must be safeguards to ensure that purely political prisoners and dissidents are not subject to any extradition. If we can be sure of that, then there is no problem on our side. Similar arrangements can be made to extradite Ukrainians from Thailand on the same basis."

The Minister scribbled a note to the aide from the Presidential Administration, who read it and pocketed it. The Ministry of Internal Affairs would be informed and told to begin work on the necessary regulations and legislation.

"From our side, we are interested in cultural exchange between our two nations. For example, we can work with the Taras Shevchenko National University, our premier centre of higher education, for an exchange program with students from your best universities. We are also interested in reducing trade barriers. We have a strong aerospace and agricultural industry- we are the breadbasket of Europe, after all- and you export machine parts, cars, rubbers and fruits. We can eliminate tariffs on the goods which we need the most, on both sides, if that is something you are interested in."

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The Thai side murmured in delight after hearing their Ukrainian counterparts’ response. Panthipha smiled politely and offered her reply. “That is excellent news, Foreign Minister. We are thrilled. Of course, it means that Thailand and Ukraine will enter a 60-day visa-on-arrival arrangement with intelligence sharing. Naturally, any returns or denials of entry of individuals must be consistent with international laws and due process. This fundamental issue is always a given, so I didn’t bring it up. Essentially, the clause will clarify your sovereign prerogatives under a more open border policy between our countries.” She remarked gracefully and continued.

“Oh, cultural exchange is indeed a light topic that everyone can agree on. Unfortunately, the confederal government didn’t negotiate with our universities beforehand. We can’t legally represent them at present, and we don’t want to risk legal ramifications domestically by violating their autonomy. However, Thailand can formalize our intention to promote cultural and educational exchanges, which we will include in our written agreement. I hope that it is agreeable. Thailand can reduce trade barriers to imports coming from Ukraine. However, I suppose you won’t be able to find markets here since we operate a decentralized, democratically planned socialist system. Of course, a reduced trade tariff for your goods is possible through the State Trading Corporations, which represent all domestic cooperatives seeking international transactions.” Panthipha paused to complete, mindlessly touching her cheeks.

“Ukraine is a fellow chef, I see. Thailand is also an agricultural exporter, and our rice demand increases annually alongside our agricultural automation nationwide, which efficiently improves productivity. It will be lovely if Thailand can access Ukrainian wheat at lower costs due to the eliminated tariffs on our side. Thailand doesn’t have any particular goods we wish Ukraine to eliminate tariffs on. However, our cooperatives can provide alternative consumer goods and electronics if your government wants the increased trading to be reciprocal. Naturally, we would only import goods, such as your wheat, that comply with strong labor standards. We don’t expect Ukraine to match our laws here, as that means your country needs to abolish capitalism, which I believe might be unthinkable for you and quite extreme. Therefore, the conditions will be similar to what the Europeans are talking about and implementing. Is there anything else you would like to export, Foreign Minister? You mention a strong aerospace industry. Indeed, Thailand was a client of such a sector, for which we awarded a few billion USD contract earlier this year. They delivered it on time.” She finished.

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"That seems perfectly agreeable, your Excellency. Your Embassy here will receive the technical details after this meeting."

"As for trade... we do have a large industry specialising in land vehicles, inherited from the Soviet Union- tanks, infantry fighting vehicles, and so on. If you would like some modern main battle tanks, we would be happy to assist. But it is well known that Thailand already enjoys a large military, so it's not a main topic of discussion."

"Our hands are really quite tied, unfortunately... we won't be able to transfer any money for quite some time, which is a shame because we were hoping to import some Thai defence products. I'm sure it will be perfectly straightforward, however, and we can get back to you when we are ready, and carry out more thorough negotiations then. Other than that, there is nothing else Ukraine wishes from Thailand. We have made incredible progress so far and we are very happy with the visas arrangement, which marks a big step forward in our relationship."

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Panthipha nodded in agreement and said, “Indeed, we have made considerable progress, but why stop here? Of course, Thailand is not suggesting a military alliance, which is too swift for our bilateral relations. However, I hope we can agree that greater clean energy independence is our mutual interest. Thailand and Ukraine should cooperate on fostering a conducive environment for its scientists to share best practices and collaborate on researches. Renewable energy is a type of energy that we don’t need to import, which is desirable for our national sovereignty. Thailand has been transitioning to such an energy source and it would be lovely if we can assist one another.” She paused and remarked: “Regardless, I will add such a term to our final treaty if you agree.” After a while, the Thai side would present their first version of the treaty for the Ukrainian side to scrutinize thoroughly. “Please amend it as you like.”​

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DRAFT TREATY ORIGINAL

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Friendship Treaty Between the Socialist Republic of Thailand and the Republic of Ukraine​

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Preamble​

Recognizing the longstanding commitment of the Socialist Republic of Thailand and the Republic of Ukraine to democratic values, human rights promotion, and the inviolability of civil liberties;

Acknowledging the unique existing partnership between Thailand and Ukraine, rooted in pragmatic cooperation for mutual interests and the prosperity of their people, transcending ideological fault lines;

Affirming the mutual dedication to the enlargement of our citizens’ freedom to live unfettered lives as they wish, given that it doesn’t interfere with the freedom of others;

Desiring to announce and formalize the cordial bilateral relationship between Thailand and Ukraine, grounded in the shared aspiration of our people for a future free from war, wants, oppression, and ecological destruction;

Expressing a commitment to peaceful international relations, mutual respect, and non-interference in the internal affairs of sovereign nations, while upholding the principles of responsibility to protect and international laws;

The Socialist Republic of Thailand and the Republic of Ukraine (hereinafter referred to as “the Parties”) have reached the following bilateral agreements:

Article I: Purpose

1. This Friendship Treaty (hereinafter referred to as “the Treaty”) serves to formalize the existing and amicable bilateral cooperation between the Parties on subjects of mutual interests based on pragmatic cooperation.
2. The Treaty is intended to create legally binding obligations under international law and represents a statement of intent to pursue collaborative activities based on mutual understanding and reciprocal benefit.

Article 2: Reciprocal Visa-on-Arrival Arrangement

1. Thailand shall ensure the safe, swift, and predictable passage of all Ukrainian passport holders through:
   • The issuance of a 60-day visa on arrival to all Ukrainian passport holders upon their legal and documented registration of intention to stay at the Thai Customs.
   • The equal treatment of all Ukrainian passport holders in Thailand is equivalent to that of Thai citizenship holders.
   • The assurance of necessary civil liberties required for uninterrupted legal conduct in Thailand, such as freedom of expression, freedom of movement, right to peaceful assembly, access to legal representation, due process, and other rights as protected by Thai laws, to Ukrainian passport holders.
2. Ukraine shall ensure the safe, swift, and predictable passage of all Thai passport holders through:
   • The issuance of a 60-day visa on arrival to all Thai passport holders upon their legal and documented registration of intention to stay at the Ukrainian Customs.
   • The equal treatment of all Thai passport holders in Ukraine is equivalent to that of Ukrainian citizenship holders.
   • The assurance of necessary civil liberties required for uninterrupted legal conduct in Ukraine, such as freedom of expression, freedom of movement, right to peaceful assembly, access to legal representation, due process, and other rights as protected by Ukrainian laws, to Thai passport holders.
3. The Parties shall exchange intelligence when their respective countries' high-profile individuals, specifically former prisoners, potential crime suspects, and dangerous personalities, intend to travel to the Parties’ territories.
4. The Parties agree that both countries reserve the right to deny entry to individuals deemed undesirable per Article 2 (3), and the Parties must facilitate the return of such persons.
5. The Parties agree that both countries reserve the right to arbitrarily return individuals from the other party who commit a crime inside the territories of the Parties, following international law and due process.

Article 3: Technological Cooperation and Sustainable Development

1. The Participants recognize the transformative potential of technology for advancing social progress and sustainable development within their respective constitutional frameworks and relevant domestic laws.
2. The Participants agree to explore mutual sustainable development goals in pursuit of a cleaner and greener world for their future generations.
3. The Parties agree to intensify or establish a formal channel for their scientists to exchange best practices and research contributing to their countries’ greater clean energy independence.
4. The Participants will explore opportunities for joint research and development projects in areas of mutual interest, focusing on technologies that enhance social well-being, environmental sustainability, and democratic participation.

Article 4: Democratic, Educational, and Cultural Exchanges

1. The Parties agree that democracy is the most suitable form of governance where the people have the right to self-determination through inclusive, transparent, and deliberative processes.
2. The Parties agree to exchange best practices regarding democratic governance, human rights promotion, civil liberties safeguard, and humanitarian assistance. The Ministries of Foreign Affairs shall serve as the point of exchange.
3. The Parties agree to promote greater cultural and educational exchanges between the countries, fostering a lasting people-to-people relationship based on mutual values and democratic foundations.

Article 5: Economic Cooperation

• Thailand agrees to eliminate all tariff and non-tariff barriers for Ukrainian wheat based on the conditions of strong labor regulation, such as fair wage, right to collective bargaining, right to unionization, and safe workplace practices and environments.
• Ukrainian agrees to eliminate all tariff and non-tariff barriers for Thai consumer goods and electronics based on the conditions of strong labor regulation, such as fair wage, right to collective bargaining, right to unionization, and safe workplace practices and environments.

Article 6:Implementation and Modalities

1) To facilitate the implementation of the Treaty, the Parties will establish a Joint Working Group (JWG) comprised of representatives from the Socialist Republic of Thailand and the Republic of Ukraine.
2) The JWG will be responsible for:

• Developing specific plans of action and collaborative projects within the areas of cooperation outlined in the Treaty.
• Facilitating communication and coordination between the Participants.
• Monitoring the progress of cooperative activities and evaluating their effectiveness.
• Organizing meetings, exchanges, and joint initiatives as agreed upon by the Participants.

3) The JWG will meet periodically, either in person or virtually, as mutually determined by the Parties.
4) The Parties will each designate a primary point of contact to serve as a liaison for the JWG and to facilitate the implementation of the Treaty.
5) The activities undertaken within the framework of the Treaty will be subject to the availability of resources and mutual agreement of the Parties.​

Article 7: General Provisions

1. The Treaty will commence upon signature and subsequent ratification by the authorized representatives of the Parties and will continue for an initial period of ten (10) years, with the possibility of extension or renewal upon mutual agreement.
2. The Treaty may be amended or supplemented by mutual written agreement of the Parties.
3. Any differences or disputes arising from the interpretation or implementation of the Treaty will be resolved amicably through consultations and dialogue between the Parties.
4. The Treaty may be terminated by either Party upon thirty (30) days' written notice to the other Party. Termination will not affect the completion of ongoing activities unless otherwise mutually agreed upon.
5. The Treaty is signed in duplicate in Kiev on this day, the Fifteenth of September, 2006.