Distinguished guests, Ladies and Gentlemen: 

On behalf of the Thai government, I consider it a privilege to witness today’s signing ceremony of the third amendment to the Pailin and B8/32 gas sales agreements. 

Energy is a prime mover for national development.  In the past few weeks, we at the cabinet have been discussing a national agenda entitled Energy Strategy for Competitiveness, with the first workshop involving all parties being held in late August.  The idea is to enrich Thailand’s competitiveness in several ways, which include a drive for energy supply to help fuel development.  Natural gas is our key indigenous fuel, and those of you present here hold the key to virtually all our gas resources in the Gulf of Thailand.  The fact that you as major operators have agreed to provide incentives to help us mitigate the impact of rising energy cost demonstrates your willingness and goodwill to help consumers and business entrepreneurs survive in the years to come.  A friend in need is a friend indeed.  Please be assured that this gesture of partnership does not go unnoticed by my government. 

May I take this opportunity to thank all who have been involved in making possible today’s event.  I commend you for your endeavor to explore all possibilities to assist the Kingdom of Thailand and energy consumers while maintaining a positive investment climate for the oil and gas exploration and production industry here in Thailand.

To commemorate this special occasion, may I propose a toast? 

(When everyone is ready for the toast)

To the gas sellers, the buyer, and the Thai people.