Senator Thongsri, pointing out that tensions in the Middle East may have long-lasting effects, stated that importing oil from Russia could be a good option.
Pornperm Thongsri, Chairman of the Energy Committee in the Thai Senate, said in a statement to Sputnik that tensions in the Middle East and the possible closure of the Strait of Hormuz could lead to a prolonged increase in energy prices.
“In this context, we do not rule out the possibility of purchasing Russian oil to stabilize Thailand’s domestic fuel market,” he said.
Thongsri also expressed the view that even if tensions in the Middle East are short-lived, the damage to the region’s oil infrastructure could have longer-term consequences.
“If Iran were to attack the oil infrastructure of neighboring oil-producing countries, rebuilding those facilities would take time,” he stated.
The Thai senator also noted that navigation safety in the Strait of Hormuz presents additional risks.
“Asian countries are heavily dependent on energy resources coming from the Middle East—around 40 percent,” he said.
Supporting the idea of starting oil imports from Russia, Thongsri commented, “In the current environment, Russian oil could be an option for Thailand. I would support this plan if the United States allows it. Otherwise, there is a risk of sanctions.”
The politician also explained that in the short term Thailand aims to improve energy efficiency and explore alternative fuel sources, including developing biofuels from agricultural waste.
In the long term, he added, the country plans to evaluate new energy production technologies, stating, “Thailand urgently needs to begin planning to use small modular reactors.”