‍

In his first (and trilingual) speech at the diplomatic reception, Thailand's new ambassador, Chittipat Tongprasroeth, had several topics to address, including some sad ones. Together with the guests, he commemorated the legendary Queen Mother Sirikit, but also the victims of last week's recent flood disaster, which according to the latest reports claimed the lives of 170 people.

‍

Queen Mother Sirikit had passed away on October 24 this year at the age of 93. Her husband, King Bhumipol, had died eight years earlier. A photo documentary on the lavishly decorated stage offered a retrospective of the young royal couple's extensive tour of Europe and North America in 1960 – a trip that brought the likeable couple worldwide attention, thanks in part to the distinctive fashion sense of the young monarch Sirikit.

Direct flights from Berlin to Thailand

However, there was also good news in the 163rd year of diplomatic relations between Germany and Thailand, one of the most popular holiday destinations for Germans: the ambassador announced that there would be direct flights from Berlin to his country in the future. Currently, there are only direct flights between Frankfurt and Munich on the one hand and Bangkok and Phuket on the other. The guests responded to the news with loud applause.

There are close economic ties not only in tourism, but also in other sectors. 600 German companies are active in Thailand. In addition, 118,000 Thais live in Germany and, conversely, 35,000 Germans live in Thailand.

The Thai Embassy transformed the Waldorf Astoria Hotel into a colorful landscape of experiences. A piece of music was also performed that King Bhumipol himself had composed in December 1951 as a New Year's greeting.

ekö