PHUKET: Vietnam has opened an honorary consulate on the resort island to strengthen diplomatic, economic and tourism ties with Thailand and provide services for Vietnamese nationals across southern provinces.
The office was inaugurated by Vietnamese Ambassador Pham Viet Hung on Thursday. The consulate's jurisdiction covers Phuket, Phangnga, Krabi, Trang, Satun, Ranong, Songkhla and Surat Thani.
Mr Pham said the opening marked an important step in enhancing Vietnam-Thailand relations as the two countries approach the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties.
Phuket and southern Thailand serve as key gateways for tourism, trade and transport in the Southeast Asia region.
The move follows the launch of direct flights between Ho Chi Minh City and Phuket by Vietnam Airlines on July 2, which is expected to boost tourism, trade, investment and people-to-people exchanges.
