Former US President Donald Trump has shown strong support for future Thai investment in the United States, especially in the energy sector. The signal came during a formal state dinner held in Qatar, where Sarath Ratanavadi, the CEO of Gulf Energy Development, was the only business representative from Thailand.
The event took place at Lusail Palace and was hosted by Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani during Trump’s recent visit to the Middle East. The dinner brought together world leaders and top business executives from different countries.
After the event, Sarath said he had a brief talk with Trump, who shared a positive message about growing Thai investment in the United States. The two discussed business opportunities, especially in the energy sector, where Gulf Energy is already active.
Gulf Energy currently has a stake in the Jackson Generation power plant, located in Will County, Illinois. This gas-fired power plant is already producing electricity for more than one million homes in the Midwest. The project shows Thailand’s growing role in international energy investments.
The dinner was also attended by several high-level US officials. These included Secretary of Finance Scott Bessant, Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, and Secretary of Energy Chris Wright. Businessman Elon Musk was also among the guests. Members of the Qatari royal family and ministers from the Qatari government were present as well. Top executives from India, the US, and other countries joined the event.
Sarath’s presence at this event highlights Thailand’s growing influence in the global economy, especially in the field of energy. It shows how Thai companies are becoming important partners in international business.
Sarath Ratanavadi is one of the most successful businessmen in Thailand. According to Forbes, he is ranked fifth among the richest people in the country, with a net worth of around 6 billion US dollars. He is also the largest shareholder in the Thai capital market, with wealth worth 240 billion baht. This was confirmed by a report from Money & Banking magazine and Chulalongkorn University.
Gulf Energy, under Sarath’s leadership, has grown into one of Thailand’s largest energy companies. It is active in several countries, including Vietnam, Oman, and the United States. The company focuses on power generation, renewable energy, and energy infrastructure.
The short meeting between Trump and Sarath may lead to stronger ties between the US and Thailand in the energy field. With clean energy becoming more important worldwide, the US is looking for trusted partners. Thai companies like Gulf Energy can help meet energy needs in a stable and efficient way.
The US government has been open to foreign investment in its energy sector. Thai firms are seen as reliable and financially strong. With support from political leaders, these companies could expand their operations in the American market.
Gulf Energy has not yet announced any new projects in the US, but experts believe that more investments may follow. The warm message from Trump may encourage other Thai companies to explore similar opportunities.
The dinner in Qatar was more than just a formal event. It was a sign of growing cooperation between countries. Thailand’s participation reflects its rising importance in global trade and energy. The world is watching as Thai firms like Gulf Energy expand beyond their borders.
