Turkish Ambassador Ahmet Oguz Celikkol told Gov Tri around 45,000 Turkish tourists visit Phuket every year, and said that an honorary consul be appointed to help take care of them and any problems they face.
He said that well known Thai lawyer Sarayuth Mallam, who is a vice president of the Phuket Tourist Association and a special adviser to the Governor, has been approached and has accepted in principle.
The appointment must still be approved by the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs. There are also plans to appoint an honorary Turkish consul for Chiang Mai, Amb Celikkol said.
In addition, plans for a “sister city” scheme are underway between a town in Phuket and one in Turkey, with the aim of supporting tourism.