[2] The historically friendly and strategic partnership between Saudi Arabia and Thailand has deteriorated significantly following the Blue Diamond Affair.

In recent years Saudi Arabia and Thailand have shown intent to repair the relations between the two kingdoms.

[3] The two countries have enjoyed warm and cordial relationships even before the establishment of formal diplomatic ties on 1 October 1957 with resident representative in their respective capitals.

The minister was granted an audience with the crown prince Abdullah Ibn Abdul Aziz Al Saud.

Thailand imported mainly crude oil, petrochemical products and fertilizer while exporting to Saudi Arabia motor cars auto part and accessories, air conditioning machine, refrigerators, prepared or preserved fish, woven fabrics, washing machines, machinery, garments, rice etc.

], according to the statistic provided by Ministry of foreign Affairs of Saudi Arabia, 10,000 Thais remain in the Kingdom.

In 2005, the number of Thai Pilgrims performing religious rituals in the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah reached 10,124.

The Blue Diamond Affair[10] was a series of events triggered by the 1989 theft of gems belonging to the Saudi royal family by a Thai employee.

In response Saudi Arabia stopped issuing working visas for Thais and discouraged its citizens from visiting the country.

[2] According to Arab News:[13] It is to be recalled that the negligence of Thai authorities to investigate a number of security cases, where some Saudi citizens were victims, led to the deterioration of relations between the Kingdom and Thailand for more than 20 years.

The Kingdom clearly asked Thailand to achieve justice in these cases in accordance with international treaties and conventions.

"I'm amazed and am wondering why Thai authorities can find culprits for [the murders of] British nationals but not for us," he said, adding the Ruwaili case was the only remaining chance for justice.

The Saudi low-cost airline, Flynas, is keen to launch a route between Jeddah and Bangkok to tap the market for tourists and Haj-Umrah pilgrims.