Report : Tazeen Akhtar ! Camera : Raja Ghulam Farid
President added, Pakistan values its longstanding ties with Thailand and remains committed to deepening cooperation in areas that serve our mutual interests. Our engagement at regional and international fora reflects a shared understanding on many issues.
“We appreciate Thailand’s efforts to promote peace, development and regional stability. Pakistan values its constructive role in encouraging dialogue, economic links and people-to-people contact. We will continue to support initiatives that advance regional harmony and collective well-being, President Zardari expressed his views.
(Minister writing his sentiments in the condolence book placed in the reception )
“As Thailand celebrates its National Day, the people of Pakistan join the Thai nation in wishing lasting peace, prosperity and progress. Pakistan looks forward to working more closely with Thailand to build a future shaped by shared priorities and steady friendship, President Pakistan concluded.
At the reception, H.E. Rongvudhi Virabutr, in his welcome address, said , Thailand is keen to enhance cooperation and relations in all sectors. Both sides will conclude the Free Trade Agreement at the earliest that will give boost to already present strong ties between two states.
He paid rich tribute to the late King Bhumibol—revered for his 70 years of service, more than 4,000 development projects and his globally admired Sufficiency Economy philosophy. The Ambassador recalled the King’s timeless message that “the suffering of the people cannot wait,” a principle that continues to guide Thailand’s domestic and foreign policy.
He also commemorated the services of late Queen Mother Sirikit , praising her lifelong dedication to culture, heritage and rural communities. A special exhibition in her honor was also arranged at the venue.
Ambassador Virabutr highlighted that this year carries special importance as Thailand and Pakistan prepare to celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations in 2026. He noted that 2025 had been a year of “intense progress,” marked by deeper cooperation and people-centered initiatives.
A short video presentation showcased various development partnerships and community projects undertaken by the Embassy across Pakistan.
The Ambassador spoke passionately about the Royal Thai Embassy’s collaboration with UN Women to uplift women entrepreneurs in Swabi and Sialkot. Training programs in the beauty sector and regenerative agriculture have helped equip women with practical skills and income-generating opportunities.
He particularly acknowledged the contribution of Ms. Jennifer Innes Taylor (“Jane”), owner of Udon Organic Farm, whose mentorship has inspired rural women to embrace sustainable farming practices.
H.E Virabutr emphasized Thailand’s strong commitment to concluding the Pakistan–Thailand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) at the earliest. He expressed confidence that bilateral trade currently around USD 1.6 billion could grow significantly once the FTA is finalized.
He also underscored Thailand’s interest in expanding investment in Pakistan’s growing halal industry, an area where Thailand holds global leadership.
As current Chair of the ASEAN Committee in Islamabad, the Ambassador reaffirmed Thailand’s determination to strengthen ASEAN–Pakistan cooperation under the theme of “Visibility, Tangibility, and Bringing into Reality.” He noted that ASEAN’s enhanced engagement will help Pakistan advance towards becoming a full dialogue partner in the future.
Concluding his address, Ambassador Virabutr said that the Thailand–Pakistan friendship is defined not only by agreements but by the “smiles we create together.” He reaffirmed Thailand’s commitment to working closely with Pakistan for shared prosperity and development.
Minister of State for Finance and Railways, Bilal Azhar Kayani, in his address, extended congratulations to the Government and people of Thailand on their National Day, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to promoting mutual cooperation between the two countries.
Kayani expressed satisfaction with the current level of excellent bilateral relations, stating that the partnership between the two nations is “founded on the principles of mutual trust, cooperation, and shared objectives for global peace and development.”
Minister Kayani stressed the importance of fostering a comprehensive and long-term partnership in various sectors, including trade and investment, education, defense, security, culture, and tourism.
He lauded the close cooperation between Pakistan and Thailand at multilateral forums, emphasizing its significance, particularly concerning issues such as climate change, food insecurity, economic matters, and regional security affairs.
He concluded by appreciating the services of Ambassador Rongvudhi Virabutr in improving relations between Thailand and Pakistan.
A large number of foreigners, citizens from different walks of life, parliamentarians, business comunity, media persons attended the event. Thai students majority of who were young girls , studying in universities of Islamabad were also present. Their glowing faces were portraying a shining picture of bilateral relations at people to people level.
