Thailand and US discuss transport and energy during Phuket naval visit
Thai and US officials discussed port modernisation, aviation, cybersecurity and energy cooperation as more than 5,000 US Navy personnel visited Phuket.
Thailand and the United States discussed closer cooperation in maritime transport, ports, aviation, cybersecurity and energy during a visit by more than 5,000 US Navy personnel to Phuket.
The USS George H.W. Bush and USS Delbert D. Black arrived in waters off Phuket on October 4, 2026, with about 5,109 personnel scheduled to remain in the area for rest and recreation through October 9.
Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn met US Ambassador to Thailand Sean O’Neill at the Ministry of Transport on October 5 to discuss bilateral cooperation and arrangements for the visit.
The Ministry of Transport is working with the Marine Department and local agencies to support travel between the ships and the shore. Police, military personnel and other authorities are overseeing security, traffic and public order.
The talks also covered the Smart and Secure Port Program and cooperation through the US Trade and Development Agency, including port modernisation, operational efficiency and cybersecurity. US-supported training for Thai transport officials is planned for November, while Thailand is considering aircraft-related provisions of the Cape Town Convention.
Officials also discussed international maritime transport, potential carbon-related costs under the International Maritime Organization’s Net-Zero Framework and future energy cooperation. Thailand will continue providing safety and logistical support for the visiting US personnel while pursuing further cooperation with the United States in transport and related sectors.
