Amb Hammargren and her delegation from the Swedish embassy in Bangkok were on a two-day trip to Phuket, concluding today (Nov 21).
Before an event held at the Phuket Marriott Merlin Beach to formally introduce Mr Somboon, Amb Hammargren met with Phuket Vice Governor Amnuay Pinsuwan and other leading provincial officials to discuss issues involving Swedish nationals in Phuket.
Joining the meeting, held at Phuket Provincial Hall, were representatives from the Temporary Passport Office, Phuket Province (as the office in Phuket representing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs) as well as from Phuket Immigration, the Phuket office of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the Phuket Chamber of Commerce and the President of the Phuket Tourist Association.
Vice Governor Amnuay pointed out that 110,00 Swedish nationals have visited Thailand from January through September this year, with many of those coming to Phuket.
“And we hope more will be coming in the last quarter of this year,” he said.
V/Gov Amnuay also congratulated Mr Somboon for his appointment as Swedish Honorary Consul for Phuket.
“It is an important position that can help to promote trade, investment, and tourism between Sweden and Phuket, in addition to helping Swedes in the area,” he noted.
V/Gov Amnuay highlighted the regular meetings held between the Phuket Governor and leading provincial officials with the diplomatic corps on the island.
“Phuket Province [the provincial government] has close cooperation with foreign honorary consulates in Phuket. Every two months, the Governor of Phuket chairs a meeting between the consular groups with various agencies of the province,” he explained.
“The meeting provides various useful information, and serves as a channel for close discussion and to respond to various issues in a timely manner,” he added.
“Thailand, especially Phuket, is popular among Swedes wishing to come and live long-term,” V/Gov Amnuay continued, pointing out that 411 Swedish nationals are currently living in Phuket on long-term visas.
“Agencies in Phuket, both public and private, are ready to care for Swedes in Phuket,” V/Gov Amnuay said.
The Swedish Honorary Consulate in Phuket is located at 25/50 Mae Luan Rd, Tambon Talad Nuea, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000. Open 9am to midday, Monday-Friday. Tel: 076-530560. Fax: 076-510939