KUWAIT: Annual scholarships provided by the Kuwaiti government and foundations have enabled hundreds of Thai students to graduate from universities in Kuwait. Marking Thailand’s National Day on Tuesday, Thai Ambassador to Kuwait Ekapol Poolpipat, expressed gratitude for this educational partnership, noting its critical role in strengthening ties between the two nations.

Ekapol praised Kuwait for its internationally recognized humanitarian efforts, balanced foreign policy and steadfast support for empowering regional and international organizations and forums. In a major step toward enhancing bilateral relations, he announced the upcoming first-ever Political Consultation between the two countries’ foreign ministries, set to take place in Thailand in the coming weeks. He described this milestone event as a new chapter in the Thailand-Kuwait partnership.

Thai children welcome guests at the event.

Officials and diplomats attend an event marking Thailand’s National Day.

On the tourism front, the ambassador noted Thailand’s continued popularity as a premier holiday destination for Kuwaiti travelers. Last year, approximately 79,000 Kuwaiti tourists visited Thailand, enjoying its vibrant cultural heritage, stunning landscapes and world-renowned cuisine. He also emphasized Thailand’s prominence in medical and wellness tourism, highlighting the exceptional services that have earned global recognition. “We warmly welcome our foreign friends seeking to invest in their health and well-being, supported by our expertise and renowned hospitality,” he said.

Reflecting on shared values, Ekapol highlighted the mutual respect between Thailand and Kuwait for sovereignty, peace, dialogue and multilateral cooperation. He also commended Kuwait’s active role in the Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD), recognizing its contributions to promoting multilateralism and advancing equitable global governance. Thailand, he added, is ready to serve as a bridge-builder, fostering connections among countries and linking ACD with regional frameworks such as APEC and BRICS.

Touching on ASEAN-Kuwait relations, the ambassador welcomed Kuwait’s signing of the Instruments of Accession to the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia in September 2023. He expressed optimism for further deepening ties and supporting Kuwait’s aspirations to become an ASEAN Sectoral Dialogue Partner in the near future.