On Thursday 3 December 2009, from 6.30 to 9.30 p.m, the Royal Thai Embassy hosted a reception at the Shangri-La Hotel to celebrate His Majesty King Bhumibol’s 82nd Birthday Anniversary and to mark the National Day of Thailand. Mr. Lim Boon Heng, Minister of the Prime Minister’s Office, Mr. Hri Kumar Nair, MP for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC, and Mrs. Ho Geok Choo, MP for Westcoast GRC, were Guests-of-Honour for the auspicious evening. There were more than 500 distinguished guests from the diplomatic corps, Thai nationals residing in Singapore and Singaporeans as well as foreigners who are special friends of Thailand from all walks of life – businessmen, government officials, professionals in the private and the public sectors as well as members of the academics, the media, the armed forces and NGOs in Singapore.

Ambassador Nopadol Gunavibool, in his speech, emphasized H.M. the King Bhumibol Aduldej’s life-long and selfless dedication to the welfare of his people which has earned Him deep love and respect from the Thai people. He also touched on the close cooperation and support between Singapore and Thailand during the time of economic crisis. He highlighted the official visit of HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn at the invitation of President Nathan which resulted in new field of cooperation – to use modern technology in assisting the old aged, the disabled and those with special needs. Looking ahead as the world is moving out of economic downturn, he sees the opportunity for both Thailand and Singapore to put joint efforts in increasing bilateral trade, investment, tourism, education, healthcare, good governance and scientific research to pre-crisis level through existing frameworks of CSEP and STEER as well as other bilateral arrangements. 

Minister Lim Boon Heng, in his reply speech, praised H.M. the King’s guidance and vision that contributed to the prosperous, modern and developed country. He pointed out the century-old friendship and relations between Singapore and Thailand. He noted with satisfaction a firm and strong bilateral relationship in all fields whether they be trade, economic, tourism, defence, people-to-people relations. He ended his speech by expressing his confidence that the Thai people and many around the world will pray for H.M. the King’s speedy recovery.

For the full text of Minister Lim Boon Heng's peech , please click here.

A video slideshow in honour of His Majesty King Bhumibol, was presented to show Singaporean and foreign distinguished guests what this much beloved King has done over the past sixty three years that he reigns as the King of Thailand.

The guests had a chance to sample wonderful and exquisite Thai and oriental cuisine prepared by Thai chef from various establishments, namely a number of selected Thai restaurants namely Thanyiang, Sabai and Duen Den,, the Thai Chef Association, the Ambassador’s residence and the Shangri-la Hotel. Some of the rare ingredients and mouth-watering desserts were air-flown especially for this occasion from Bangkok to ensure that all guests enjoyed the Thai cuisine.

For the full text of Ambassador Nopadol’s speech for the evening, please click here.

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Toast speech for Minister Lim Boon Heng

Speech by Ambassador Nopadol Gunavibool