ISLAMABAD: The National Father’s Day celebration arranged by the Embassy of Thailand on Tuesday night had all the exotic flavours of the country.

Father’s Day, which is commemorated on Dec 5 every year, is also the birthday of late King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

Members from the diplomatic community and local dignitaries joined Rongvudhi Virabutr, ambassador-designate of the Kingdom of Thailand to Pakistan, who arrived in Islamabad a few days ago.

Rongvudhi Birabutr is a career diplomat with extensive experience of representing Thailand in various countries.

In her welcome remarks, Kamolwan Sriposil, Charge d Affaires of the Thai embassy said under the leadership of Rongvudhi Birabutr, the embassy was committed to taking Pakistan-Thailand relations to the next level.

“As we celebrate more than 70 years of diplomatic relations, Thailand and Pakistan share a bond and historical ties that go back 2,000 years to the Gandhara civilisation,” said Kamolwan Sriposil.

With ongoing negotiations between Thailand and Pakistan on free trade agreement, Kamolwan Sriposil informed her guests with confidence that greater opportunities awaited for more collaboration.

She said Thai companies operating and investing in Pakistan highlighted the potential of the partnership between the two countries, to drive economic growth, create jobs and improve livelihoods.

“Pakistan is a nation of immense treasures and potential from the abundance of natural resources to strength of the young population,” she said while appreciating the hospitality and generosity of Pakistani people across the length and breadth of the country,” she said.

As the world became increasingly interconnected amidst various challenges the strength of partnership between the two countries was a sign of hope and opportunity, she added.

Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah was the chief guest at the National Father’s Day celebration.

He said Pakistan and Thailand enjoyed close relations, based on historic linkages, shared values and common interests.

The celebration offered a unique opportunity to sample Thai dishes. Additionally, the celebration included traditional Thai dances and handicraft displays.

Published in Dawn, December 4th, 2024