RIYADH (AFP) – Saudi Arabia and Thailand have announced the resumption of diplomatic ties, after more than three decades of frozen relations linked to the theft of jewels from a Saudi palace.
Thai-born janitor Kriangkrai Techamong stole USD20 million worth of precious gems in 1989 from the home of a Saudi prince, triggering a spate of murders in Bangkok and a feud between the countries dubbed the “Blue Diamond Affair”.
The two countries announced in a joint statement late on Tuesday “the full re-establishment of diplomatic relations” during a visit by Thailand’s Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha to Riyadh.
“This historic step is the result of long-standing efforts at different levels to re-establish mutual confidence and friendly relations,” the joint statement added, following a meeting between the Thai premier and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
The two countries agreed to appoint ambassadors in the near future.
Saudi Airlines meanwhile announced that flights to Thailand would resume in May.
The Thai government said the Saudis had flagged that they were seeking eight million skilled workers, including in hotels, healthcare and construction projects.
Thailand indicated it had a ready supply of skilled workers to help fill the need, Rachada Dhanadirek, a Thai deputy government spokeswoman, said in a statement.
Thailand had repeatedly sought to restore ties, in part to benefit its crucial tourism industry.
