What USS Abraham Lincoln Arriving in Thailand Means for Economy
Thailand's "sin city" is preparing to welcome thousands of U.S. Navy personnel after nine months at sea.
The USS Abraham Lincoln, a Nimitz-class aircraft carrier, has arrived in Thailand after an extensive 286-day deployment in the Middle East. With around 5,000 crew members onboard, the ship docked near Pattaya, a coastal city on the Gulf of Thailand, following weeks of challenges such as supply shortages and mental health issues.
Rear Admiral Robert E. Loughran, commander of the Lincoln’s carrier strike group, emphasized the crew's need for rest and recovery, highlighting the strong alliance between the United States and Thailand. Thai officials and businesses have welcomed the visit as economically beneficial, with local hopes for a significant boost to the city's tourism and hospitality sectors.
The visit is expected to generate substantial spending, with an estimated 15 million to 100 million Thai baht ($450,000 to $3 million) in total expenditure by the Navy personnel. Pattaya's mayor believes the sailors will collectively spend between 1,000 to 3,000 Thai baht ($30 to $90) each, as they explore the city's beaches, nightlife, and attractions. Security measures have been heightened to ensure a smooth experience for both visitors and locals, including increased police presence and management of specific areas.
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