The meeting, held at the Phuket Provincial Hall, focused on strengthening diplomatic ties, enhancing tourism collaboration and addressing key challenges related to the growing number of international visitors.
The discussions were attended by representatives from various agencies, including the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Phuket Office, the Phuket Temporary Passport Office, Phuket Provincial Police and the Phuket Provincial Office.
The meeting covered the province’s development strategies in tourism and infrastructure, as well as measures to support and regulate the increasing number of tourists.
Governor Sophon highlighted Phuket’s strong tourism performance, reporting that in 2024, the province welcomed 13.1 million visitors, generating over B497 billion in revenue, said an official report of the meeting.
He noted that while only 14 Azerbaijanis are long-term residents of Phuket, the number of Azerbaijani tourists is growing, with 450 visiting in January alone. He emphasised Phuket’s commitment to welcoming more Azerbaijani visitors and enhancing their experience.
However, the governor acknowledged that Phuket faces challenges associated with increased tourism, including violations of local laws and cultural misunderstandings.
To address these issues, the province holds bi-monthly meetings with consulates from 29 countries to foster mutual understanding, Governor Sophon explained.
Traffic congestion is another concern, and Phuket has proposed solutions to the central government to ensure the province remains a premium travel destination with top-tier infrastructure, he added.
Amb Bashirov expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and support from Phuket’s government agencies.
“I would like to thank the Governor of Phuket Province and government agencies for taking the time to join the discussion. The Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan in Thailand just opened in September 2024.
“Although there are few Azerbaijanis living in Phuket, the embassy will help communicate to ensure that Azerbaijanis comply with the laws and culture of Phuket,” he said.
The ambassador highlighted the positive impact of the E-Visa policy, which has facilitated travel to Thailand.
He also expressed interest in supporting the establishment of direct flights from Baku to Bangkok or Phuket to boost tourism and bilateral relations.
Additionally, he discussed the possibility of developing a sister-city relationship between Phuket and a comparable Azerbaijani city, aiming to exchange knowledge on sustainable tourism development.
“Azerbaijan wants to learn from Phuket’s success in developing a globally recognized tourist destination. Thailand is known for its hospitality and rich cultural heritage, and we are eager to strengthen ties with Phuket and Thailand as a whole,” Amb Bashirov stated.
“As for the concept of developing sister cities, Azerbaijan is pleased, but it will have to be considered which cities in Azerbaijan are similar to Phuket in terms of traditions, culture and history.
“Azerbaijan wants to learn from Phuket about the approach to developing cities into sustainable tourist cities that have been recognised internationally for a long time.
“Thailand is famous for developing its people. Azerbaijan would like to develop relations between Thailand and Phuket because Thailand has beautiful smiles and a beautiful cultural heritage," he added.