ISLAMABAD: The national day of the Kingdom of Thailand was on Friday celebrated in the capital with a vibrant blend of gastronomic delights, melodious tunes and captivating dance performances.

Ambassador Chakkrid Kraichaiwong presided over the event, joined by guests, including Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Dr Umar Saif along with ambassadors and high commissioners.

December 5 holds particular significance for Thailand as it honours both the national day and commemorates the birth anniversary of the revered late king Bhumibol Adulyadej.

Known for his dedication to improving the welfare of his people during his reign, his legacy continues to resonate within the fabric of the country.

Highlighting the enduring ties between Thailand and Pakistan, Ambassador Kraichaiwong emphasised the historical foundation of over two millennia dating back to the ancient Gandhara route. Looking ahead, the ambassador expressed optimism about the promising trajectory of bilateral relations in future. He cited numerous historical moments that underscore the strength of these ties in 2023.

In discussions regarding mutual collaboration, emphasis was placed on leveraging Pakistan’s national single window initiative to enhance investment facilitation. The ambassador underscored potential areas of collaboration, spanning tourism, human resource development, education and information technology, emphasising a people-centric approach and the advancement of women entrepreneurs.

The ambassador also lauded Pakistan’s cultural treasures, specifically highlighting the Gandhara civilization, noting its profound contributions beyond Buddhism to global knowledge. Taxila, he noted, stood as a testament to wisdom, philosophy, medicine and technology, a shared heritage that fostered pride and collaboration.

Moreover, Ambassador Kraichaiwong extolled the intrinsic value of Pakistan’s people, commending their skills, bravery, patriotism and innate kindness, mirroring the virtues cherished by the Thai populace.

In a global landscape characterised by challenges, the ambassador emphasised the significance of shared culture, values and enduring friendships in fostering strength and resilience. Expressing Thailand’s commitment to collaborative growth, he articulated a vision of leveraging the combined potential of both nations for the greater good, aiming to create enduring legacies and stories of pride for future generations.

The celebration also acknowledged the role of sports, particularly cricket, in fostering friendships and building bridges between the two nations. Additionally, gestures like extending warm hospitality to visiting cyclists in the northern areas were highlighted as instrumental in fortifying the bonds between the peoples of Thailand and Pakistan.

The Thai national day celebration in Islamabad served as a testament to the vibrant cultural tapestry and deep-rooted diplomatic ties shared between the two nations, setting the stage for a future characterised by mutual collaboration and shared progress.

Published in Dawn, December 3rd, 2023