On 26 August 2009, Mr. Kasit Piromya, Minister of Foreign Affairs, presided over the Annual Meeting of Thai Consular Officials 2009, held during 24-29 August 2009 at the Imperial Queen’s Park Hotel. Ninety-three consular officials from Thai embassies and consulates-general worldwide, as well as passport offices, attended the meeting.
In his opening remarks, Foreign Minister Kasit said that consular affairs are the public service aspect of the Foreign Ministry’s work. Often the first gateway that visitors to the country must pass, the role of consular offices is to facilitate and assist both Thais and foreigners. Consular affairs are an important part of the Foreign Ministry’s work, being part of its “Public Diplomacy.” In addition, consular affairs have to be responsive to the incumbent Government’s policies, based on the Constitution which places much importance to civil society.
Foreign Minister Kasit expressed his appreciation for the efforts of Thai consular officials in assisting Thais who face problems abroad, as well as arranging overseas elections, which broaden the opportunity of overseas Thais to participate in Thai politics. He encouraged participants to exchange views and discuss problems related to consular affairs to use in their assignments.
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