On 26 September 2017, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand, the Embassy of Japan in Thailand, and Japan Foundation organized the opening ceremony of the “130 Years of Thailand – Japan Friendship” exhibition to mark the occasion of the 130th anniversary of the establishment of Thailand – Japan diplomatic relations at the Rattanakosin Exhibition Hall, Ratchadamnoen Avenue. The event was presided over by H.E. Mr. Virasakdi Futrakul, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, and H.E. Mr. Iwao Horii, Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan. Present at the ceremony were high-level Thai and Japanese government officials and business representatives and the diplomatic community in Thailand, as well as Mr. Jirayu Tangsrisuk, Thai actor and Goodwill Ambassador of 130th Anniversary of Thailand – Japan Diplomatic Relations, Mr. Vorakorn Sirisorn and Mr. Jaruwat Cheawaram, Thai artists acquainted with Japan.  

 

The Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan gave the opening remarks, congratulating on the long and close friendship between Thailand and Japan, which has lasted over 130 years and encompasses all dimensions of cooperation. They also expressed confidence that the relationship will continue to strengthen and pave the way for future cooperative endeavours. Moreover, the Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan also presented to the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs a congratulatory message from Prime Minister of Japan addressed to the Prime Minister of Thailand on this auspicious occasion.  

 

The “130 Years of Thailand – Japan Friendship” exhibition will be open to the public during 27 September – 8 October 2017. Admission is free. The exhibition showcases many aspects of Thailand – Japan relations, tracing back to historical ties including the monarchy that forms the foundation of Thailand – Japan relations. The exhibition also covers present cooperation at the government level in politics, economics, and people-to-people exchanges, including food, animation, music, films, soap operas, sports, arts and other areas. More details about the exhibition can be found on the YouTube channel: 130thThailandJapan.