By Diplomacy Journal Lee Kap-soo

Eo Seong-cheol, president of Hanwha Ocean’s Special Ship Division, met with Ambassador Tanee Sangrat of Thailand to Korea, on March 10 to discuss closer cooperation for the development of the country's maritime security and shipbuilding industry, Hanwha Ocean announced.

Ambassador Tanee, who was appointed to the post in April last year, visited Hanwha Ocean for the first official exchange. Hanwha Ocean presented to Ambassador Tanee its long-term vision to enhance the competitiveness of Thailand's shipbuilding industry and expand collaboration with local shipyards.

In response, Ambassador Tanee showed keen interest in Hanwha Ocean's shipbuilding technology and localization strategy, especially the potential for technology transfer.

Ambassador Tanee also had the opportunity to interact with Thai trainees at Hanwha Ocean's technical training center in Geoje, Korea, via video, to get a real sense of the practical cooperation.

“I would like to further enhance bilateral economic cooperation through defense cooperation for the modernization of the Thai Navy and the integration of Hanwha Ocean's outstanding shipbuilding technology into the Thai industry,” said Ambassador Tanee. ”These efforts will contribute to further strengthening Thailand's maritime security.”

“This visit was a valuable opportunity to share Hanwha Ocean's commitment and vision as a reliable partner in supporting Thailand's maritime security,” said Eo Seong-cheol, Head of Hanwha Ocean's Specialized Vessels Division. ”We will continue to export vessels and collaborate with Thailand to build the capacity of the Thai industry and support economic growth.”

Hanwha Ocean previously won an order for a 3,700-ton frigate from Thailand in 2013 and successfully delivered the vessel in 2018.