On 8 August 2015, Ambassadors and Permanent Representatives to the United Nations in New York comprising foreign dignitaries from 17 countries, including Afghanistan, Albania, Liberia, Equatorial Guinea, Guinea Bissau, Guinea, Tanzania, Georgia, Mali, Palau, Gambia, Sierra Leone, Bhutan, Cabo Verde, Costa Rica, Panama and Guatemala, paid a courtesy call on General Tanasak Patimapragorn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, after which he hosted a dinner in honour of the visiting dignitaries.

           During the courtesy call, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand welcomed the dignitaries to Thailand and expressed his commitment to promoting cooperation with their countries within the multilateral framework through the UN and other regional organisations such as ECOWAS, AU, as well as within the bilateral framework. He also discussed the political situation in Thailand and reaffirmed Thailand’s commitment to its Roadmap in reforming the country and also to its international obligations.

           The foreign dignitaries appreciated the various field visits conducted throughout the trip, particularly Thailand’s constructive roles in various areas, such as the promotion of gender equality, the empowerment of women and capacity building for women. They also reflected on Thailand’s distinctive role in UN Peacekeeping Operations.

           The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand underscored the upcoming realisation of the ASEAN Community by the end of this year, which Thailand attaches great importance. He also highlighted Thailand’s successful role as a country coordinator between ASEAN Members States and China on ASEAN – China relations including the issue of the South China Sea.

            The Third Special Visit met the objective of strengthening the network of “Friends of Thailand” in the UN and international arena. It also promoted a better understanding of Thailand’s constructive role in peace and security, the promotion and protection of human rights and sustainable development, which are the three pillars of the United Nations. The visit provided the dignitaries with the opportunity to engage with the country’s leadership on Thai government policies and programmes. Moreover, they were able to experience the uniqueness of Thai culture and traditions during this visit.