Paris: The Prime Minister of Thailand, Anutin Charnvirakul, is gearing up to attend the "Royal Garments to the World" exhibition in Paris. During this visit, he plans to have a small meeting with the French President, Emmanuel Macron. The Prime Minister expressed that this engagement is a strategic opportunity to benefit Thailand and urged the Thai community to place their trust in the government, which is working diligently for the nation's advancement. He also voiced confidence in the "Thai Helps Thai Plus" project as a pivotal step to bolster the country's economy.
According to Thai News Agency, Prime Minister Anutin, along with Deputy Prime Ministers Sihasak Phuangketkaew and Ekniti Nitithanpraphas, and Minister of Culture Sabida Thaiseth, addressed the Thai community at the International Buddhist Temple in Paris. They were there to pay respects to and honor Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya for her significant contributions to Thai textiles, arts, and cuisine, for which she was awarded the Legion of Honour by France. The delegation will also participate in the exhibition "La Mode en Majest©: Royal Thai Dress from Tradition to Modernity," an event under the patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya.
During his visit, Prime Minister Anutin plans to meet with French President Emmanuel Macron over dinner, where they aim to discuss key issues that could strengthen bilateral ties and discuss potential collaborations that benefit Thailand. He emphasized the importance of exploring alternative energy solutions amid global tensions affecting oil prices and highlighted Thailand's potential in leveraging its resources for future development.
The Prime Minister urged the Thai community in France to act as ambassadors for Thailand, encouraging investment and economic cooperation. He assured that the government is committed to improving the quality of life for Thai citizens, both domestically and abroad, by enhancing economic policies like the "Thai Helps Thai Plus" project, which is set to inject substantial funds into the grassroots economy.
Meanwhile, Ekniti Nitithanpraphas, in charge of economic affairs, assured the Thai community in France that although global economic conditions are challenging, Thailand's economy is on a positive trajectory. The Director-General of the International Energy Agency, Dr. Fatih Birol, praised Thailand's focus on grassroots community support through projects like "Thai Help Thai Plus," underscoring the government's commitment to localized economic resilience.
Deputy Prime Minister Sihasak Phuangketkaew, with experience as a former Ambassador to Paris, expressed his appreciation for the Thai community's role in fostering positive relations between Thailand and France. He encouraged them to continue promoting Thailand's image abroad.
Culture Minister Sabida Thaiseth discussed her efforts to register Thai traditional dress with UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage, ensuring its recognition and preservation. She reassured the public that there are no issues concerning claims against Thai traditional clothing, emphasizing the cultural pride associated with it.