SI RACHA, THAILAND – The oil tanker MT.POLA operated by Bangchak arrived safely in Thailand after passing through the Strait of Hormuz and delivering crude oil to a refinery, following diplomatic coordination that secured an exemption for Thai ships from Iran and Oman.
Safe arrival in Chon Buri
Energy company Bangchak said the oil tanker MT.POLA safely reached Si Racha district in Chon Buri province on 8 April.
The vessel had previously passed through the Strait of Hormuz and delivered crude oil to the company’s refinery.
Diplomatic coordination with Iran and Oman
According to the report, the voyage took place after diplomatic coordination between Thailand, Iran and Oman, which was said to have enabled Thai cargo ships to use the route on 23–24 March.
This coordination reportedly resulted in an exemption that allowed Thai ships to pass through the strait.
Role of the then acting foreign minister
Sihasak Phuangketkeow was named as taking the lead in this coordination while serving as acting foreign minister at the time.
He was reported to have worked with the three governments to secure the clearance for Thai vessels.
Technical data of the tanker MT.POLA
According to DailyNews, the MT.POLA sailed under the Liberian flag and was 274.5 meters long.
Its draft was given as 13.90 meters, with a displacement of 182,538.10 tonnes.
Stopover in Singapore and loading
After transiting the Strait of Hormuz, the ship called at Singapore to load 300,000 barrels of crude oil.
The MT.POLA then continued its voyage to Thailand.
Offshore transfer near Si Racha: 600,000 barrels for the refinery
Later, the tanker reached the offshore terminal of the Bangchak Marine Bulk Marketing Installation off Si Racha.
There, 600,000 barrels of crude oil were handed over for further processing at the refinery.
Government: Agreement for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz
In an earlier step, Thailand had reached an agreement with Iran to allow Thai oil tankers to pass safely through the Strait of Hormuz, said Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul.
This took place as the government adjusted its response to volatility in the energy markets.
Relief over shortage concerns and faster deliveries
According to the prime minister, the arrangement was expected to help reduce concerns about possible fuel shortages.
Certain deliveries could also reach the country more quickly as a result.
Foreign Ministry accelerated talks
Anutin stated that the Foreign Ministry had accelerated talks with relevant countries on trade and on sea and cargo transport.
Negotiations with Iran had now been successfully concluded.
Appeal against panic and apology for price fluctuations
The 32nd prime minister of Thailand called on the public not to panic and stressed that domestic fuel reserves were sufficient to meet demand.
“I urge people not to panic; domestic fuel stocks are adequate for demand.”
said Anutin Charnvirakul, prime minister.
At the same time, he apologised for the recent price volatility and said the newly formed government had initially underestimated how long the situation could last and had since shifted its course to cushioning the impact.
“We apologise for the recent price volatility; the new government initially underestimated how long this situation would last and has now adjusted its course to soften the effects.”
said Anutin Charnvirakul, prime minister.