Panpree leaves for Qatar and Egypt seeking help for release of Thai hostages

Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara

Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara leaves Thailand today for a three-day visit to Qatar and Egypt, to seek help from the two governments in getting 22 Thais, held captive by Hamas, released.

A government source said that Parnpree is scheduled to meet with the prime minister and foreign minister of Qatar today in Doha and the foreign minister of Egypt in Cairo tomorrow.

In an earlier interview, Panpree said the goal is the release of Thai hostages as soon as possible, although no one knows exactly where the hostages are being held. They could be in the Gaza Strip or elsewhere.

The government is ready to negotiate with Hamas via any channel available for the release of the hostages, he said.

Two groups of Thai nationals, totalling 232, arrived at Don Muang airport late last night on two commercial flights. The arrivals were briefed…