Brunei, Thai relations withstand test of time

Minister of Development Pehin Dato Hj Abdullah (2nd L) and Thai Ambassador to Brunei Phithak Phrombubpha (2nd R) cutting the cake to commemorate King of Thailand's 82nd birthday, while their respective spouses, Datin Hjh Hasiah (L) and Prapassorn Phrombubpha (R), look on.
SINCE the establishment of the diplomatic relations in 1983, Brunei and Thailand have enjoyed close and cordial relations, which have continued to be intensified over the years. These bonds of affinities have been strengthened and have so well withstood the test of time.

This was said by Phithak Phrombubpha, Ambassador of Thailand to Brunei, during a reception to mark His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand's 82nd birthday anniversary.

The celebration held at the Grand Ballroom of The Empire Hotel & Country Club last night, was an annual activity hosted by the Thailand Embassy since its establishment in the Sultanate in 1983.

The ambassador expresses hopes that Brunei Darussalam and Thailand will continue on the decades of diplomatic relationship between the two nations.

"Thailand stands firm in cooperation with Brunei in all areas for the mutual benefits of our two countries and people, as well as the peace, prosperity and security of our two region as a whole," said Phithak.

He went on to say that, with the support from the Government of His Majesty the Sultan and yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, he looked forward to continue working to further strengthen the cordial bilateral ties of friendship and cooperation between the two nations in the years to come.

He also took the opportunity to convey his sincere best wishes for the continuing good health and happiness of His Majesty The Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, Members of the Royal Family and the people of Brunei.

The Thai Ambassador expressed his sincere gratitude and deep appreciation for all who attended the gracious occasion to honour the Thai King, which also marked as the National Day of the Kingdom of Thailand.

"For the past 64 years on the throne, millions of Thais from all walks of life have witnessed and can attest to His Majesty the King's dedication to his people through all sorts of activities and initiatives that has endeared His Majesty to the hearts of Thais as a highly esteemed and caring monarch who tirelessly works for the continued well-being of his people," he said adding that the Thai monarch has provided leadership, inspiration, comfort and wisdom to all his people, reaching out to the poorest and the most vulnerable in Thailand, listening to their problems and finding practical solutions for them.

He went to say that King Bhumibol Adulyadej is he "Soul of the Nation" and always in the hearts and minds of the Thai people.

Present as guest of honour at the event was Minister of Development Pehin Orang Kaya Hamzah Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Hj Abdullah Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Hj Bakar, who was accompanied by his wife, Datin Hjh Hasiah Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Setia Dato Paduka Hj Hashim. They were welcomed by the ambassador and his wife Prapassorn Phrombubpha.

Among those who attended the reception were selected members of various government agencies and foreign dignitaries.

Thailand and Brunei have enjoyed cordial relations which have progressed steadily at bilateral, regional, and international levels.

Since the establishment of diplomatic ties on January 1, 1983, the two nations have cooperated in various areas such as in trade, education, air services, labour, defence and broadcasting.