Israeli ambassador meets Chiang Mai deputy governor for talks

CHIANG MAI — On Thursday, Israeli Ambassador to Thailand Alona Fisher-Kamm met with Chiang Mai Deputy Governor Siwakorn Buapong at the Chiang Mai Provincial Hall. The discussion focused on collaboration across various fields, such as tourism, education, technology, agriculture, and Thai workers in Israel. The provincial governor assured the ambassador that Chiang Mai welcomes visitors from around the world and is prepared to offer security and support to tourists and foreigners of all nationalities.

Fisher-Kamm pointed out that around 65,000 Thai workers are employed in Israel, despite the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. She added that Thai workers are well taken care of and safe in Israel. The ambassador also mentioned that Israel has raised its annual quota for Thai agricultural workers from 16,000 to 18,000.

Although the existing employment arrangements are based on business-to-business (B2B) cooperation, the ambassador expressed hope that a future government-to-government (G2G) agreement could enhance support and streamline arrangements for Thai workers in Israel. Fisher-Kamm also thanked the Chiang Mai authorities for their assistance and facilities provided to Israeli visitors and residents.

The Israeli community in Chiang Mai meets regularly on Fridays, and the ambassador expressed optimism that cooperation between Israel and Chiang Mai could be expanded in various areas, particularly tourism. Both parties emphasized that stronger cooperation could foster closer ties and mutual exchanges between the two sides.