Remarks by H.E. Mr. Tej Bunnag,Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand At the Reception Commemorating the 60th Anniversary of the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between the Kingdom of Thailand and the Union of Myanmar 24 August 2008 The Royal Thai Embassy, Yangon
Your Excellency General Thein Sein, Prime Minister of the Union of Myanmar,
Your Excellency U Nyan Win,
Distinguished Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
- Yesterday evening, the Embassy of the Union of Myanmar in Bangkok organized a reception to commemorate the 60th Anniversary of the Establishment of Diplomatic
Relations between the Kingdom of Thailand and the Union of Myanmar. Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej and the Deputy Foreign Minister of Myanmar, U Maung Myint were there.
- I am very pleased that today Prime Minister Thein Sein and Lieutenant General Myint Swe are here to join us at the Royal Thai Embassy in Yangon to celebrate this auspicious milestone in Thai-Myanmar relations.
- As neighbours, the chronicle of our relations began long before 24 August 1948. For centuries, our two peoples have been bound together by common religious beliefs, shared culture and traditions. Through constant changes in the political and economic landscape, Theravada Buddhism has been, and remains, one of the strongest ties between us.
- But 60 years ago on this very day, our two countries entered a new chapter in our bilateral relations. Both my grandfather and my father were representatives of the Royal Thai Government at that important event. So this anniversary is highly significant for me personally.
- Several commemorative events and activities have been planned in both countries throughout the year.
- The highlights planned by the Royal Thai Embassy include the construction of decorative posts and a chain fence around the two Maha Bodhi trees, and the installation of a commemorative plaque at Mahapasana Cave. The two Maha Bodhi trees were planted by Their Majesties the King and Queen of Thailand during their State Visit in March 1960. These two trees have thrived and grown ever sturdier for almost 50 years, much as our cordial relations have steadily expanded in all dimensions.
- The progress we have achieved is the result of the joint endeavours of our two Governments and peoples to cultivate the seeds of friendship. Today we enjoy close cooperation in many areas. Our economic linkages are the most prominent, but cultural cooperation is also growing impressively.
- Shortly, you will see cultural performances that reflect how much we have in common: the Hun Lokhorn Lek, or traditional small marionettes, brought to life by Thailand’s Aksara Theatre Troupe, and Myanmar’s own string puppets. This show is a fine example of our similar cultural heritage. I encourage you not to miss it.
Excellencies,
Distinguished Guests,
- Looking ahead, Thailand and Myanmar will be increasingly intertwined — not only as neighbours but also as members of the same ASEAN family. We have both opportunities to explore and challenges to address together.
- I hope that we will take this auspicious opportunity to renew our commitment to working together, building trust and confidence, and strengthening our cooperation, for the mutual benefit of our people and for future generations.
- May I now invite all of you to join me in a toast to the everlasting friendship and close cooperation between the Kingdom of Thailand and the Union of Myanmar and the continued prosperity, success and happiness of our two nations and peoples.
Thank you.
Prime Minister at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Press Division, Department of Information Tel.(02) 643-5170
Fax. (02) 643-5169 E-mail : div0704@mfa.go.th End.