On 20-24 February 2011, as part of the celebration of the 7th cycle anniversary of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the Royal Thai Embassy in London in collaboration with the Department of Information, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, organized a “Homecoming Visit for Thai” project brining a group of 21 Thais, aged 14-18 years old, who were born and/or grew up in the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland, to visit Thailand.
The main objective of the project is to cultivate a better understanding among young Thais living abroad about Thai cultures and Thai identity, including the role of the Thai monarchy, so as to promote a closer bond with their heritage. While in Thailand, the 21 youths participated in various activities, including courtesy calls on Thai dignitaries, namely, Mr. Arsa Sarasin, His Majesty’s Principle Private Secretary, and Dr. Sumet Tantivejakul, Secretary-General of the Chaipattana Foundation. They also visited, among others, the Grand Palace, the Bangsai Arts and Crafts Centre of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit in Ayutthaya Province, and the Kung Krabaen Bay Royal Development Study Centre in Chantaburi province.
In addition, Mr. Pisanu Chanvitan, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, led the Thai youth delegation to visit Bangkok’s Siriraj Hospital to pay homage to His Majesty the King and sign get-well wish messages for His Majesty’s speedy recovery.
For further information, please contact the Press Division, Department of Information, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Tel.02-6435170, Fax.02-6435169, E-mail: div0704@mfa.go.th