Islamabad, 13 February 2024 (TDI): A contingent of the 5th International Young Diplomats School (IYDS) visited the Embassy of Thailand in Pakistan, as part of the specialized training initiative.
The participants had the honor of meeting with the esteemed Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand, Chakkrid Krachaiwong, to deepen their understanding of the foreign policy of Thailand as well as the bilateral ties between Pakistan and Thailand.
The cohort engaged in a thoughtful exchange of ideas and insights with Ambassador Chakkrid Krachaiwong, exploring various aspects of diplomatic practices and bilateral relations between the two nations.
The Ambassador of Thailand enlightened the participants regarding the diplomatic protocols and etiquette by delving into the intricacies of international relations.
He discussed the historical background of the bilateral relationship between Pakistan and Thailand, highlighting the establishment of diplomatic ties on 10 October 1951. He also explored the factors contributing to the enduring friendship between the two nations.
As an Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member, the Ambassador focused on the role of cultural diplomacy in strengthening ties between countries, with discussions on promoting cultural exchange programs and initiatives.
Thoughtful discussions on shared global challenges highlighted on how countries can collaborate to address common issues such as climate change, health crises, and regional security.
Pakistan-Thailand strong ties
Thailand and Pakistan enjoy close and cordial ties. Both Pakistan and Thailand have age-old histories of ancient civilization. They have been connected by a common cultural linkage through Buddhism and the Gandhara civilization that flourished in the city of Taxila.
In 2022, the bilateral trade volume between Pakistan and Thailand has reached $1.8 billion. Pakistan is one of the Thailand’s important trade partners and export destinations.
Religious Freedom in Thailand
The new constitution endorsed by King Maha Vajiralongkorn specifically prohibits discrimination based on religious belief and protects religious liberty in Thailand. King Vajiralongkorn actively promotes religious freedom in the country.
In accordance with the the Constitution, Thai Muslims enjoy the same support and protection accorded to all Thai citizens. They have the full liberty to practice their faith and propagate the Islamic belief as well as take part in religious and social affairs.
Additionally, they are entitled to the same political rights as all other Thai citizens to participate fully, without any discrimination, in the Thai political system of democracy with the King as Head of State.
Late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, father of King Vajiralongkorn, often allocated His personal funds for the construction and restoration of mosques. There are approximately 2,000 mosques in Thailand, about 100 of which are in Bangkok. Some 200 Muslim schools offer secular as well as religious instruction.
International Young Diplomats School The Institute of Peace and Diplomatic Studies (IPDS) launched the International Young Diplomats School (IYDS) as a ground-breaking program to highlight the value of diplomacy in the rapidly evolving, globally connected world. It is the 5th International Diplomats School, in which participants are given opportunities to interact with Ambassadors of different Embassies. IPDS has organized the Fifth Edition of the IYDS from 13-16 February 2024 in Islamabad. The participants are young professionals with diverse backgrounds, students, and faculty members across Pakistan. During the School, the participants will be meeting hosted by Ambassadors of different countries at their offices. You can see details about the program here, especially about our earlier cohorts. You can also see our profile here. IYDS is based on the model of the Public Diplomacy approach for offering an opportunity for Diplomatic Missions to meet diverse groups of professionals and young people from across Pakistan having various ethnic, religious, linguistic, and regional backgrounds. Hence, offering the Diplomatic Missions to increase their outreach and interaction with the young people from across Pakistan. On the other hand, IYDS offers young people to meet Ambassadors and Diplomats to learn more about countries and build stronger relationships while returning to their communities. The group of 16-20 participants ages 18-40 having diverse academic and professional backgrounds from different regions of Pakistan joined to be part of the program. The program includes visits to different diplomatic missions in Islamabad and information sessions with Ambassadors, Diplomats, and other Embassy staff. Ambassadors and Diplomats will share insights about their missions, countries, and opportunities for education, development, and trade with the participants. |
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