Strategic partnership: Thailand and UK celebrate 170 years
The British Ambassador to Thailand, Mark Gooding, has announced plans to enhance bilateral relations through a series of events and activities celebrating the Thailand-UK strategic partnership. These initiatives mark the 170th anniversary of the establishment of ties between the two nations.
Gooding shared this information at the 170th Anniversary Launch Party held on Thursday evening, January 16, at the Postal Theatre located in the Grand Postal Building on Charoen Krung Road in Bangkok’s Bang Rak district.
The embassy is set to organise a series of events as part of a roadshow that will visit various regions across Thailand. A UK fair is also planned to facilitate interactions with Thai residents, particularly students, focusing on the historical and future potential of the relationship between the two countries.
Later in the year, musical performances are on the agenda, including shows by the UK military and the London Symphony Orchestra, along with various business events.
The UK holds the distinction of being the first European country to establish a strategic partnership with Thailand.
“This strategic partnership is a very forward-looking document, but there are many areas where we need to collaborate more closely, such as healthcare and genomics, science and technology, and international security.”
Gooding emphasised the mutual interests shared by both countries, expressing a desire to grow their economies while ensuring the protection of their citizens. The British ambassador noted that much work remains to adapt to the evolving global environment of the 21st century, reported Bangkok Post.
The UK and Thailand maintain robust trade ties. Key Thai exports to the UK include electronics, automotive parts, and agricultural products like rice and seafood. The UK exports machinery, chemicals, and luxury goods to Thailand.
The UK has long been a popular destination for Thai students seeking higher education. There is also a significant Thai community in the UK. Similarly, British tourists contribute significantly to Thailand’s tourism industry, with hotspots like Bangkok, Phuket, and Pattaya being major attractions.
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