The Royal Thai Embassy of Brunei Darussalam hosted a soiree to commemorate the Royal Thai Armed Forces Day on Wednesday at the Songket Ballroom of the Rizqun International Hotel.
“The Royal Thai Armed Forces Day is observed annually on the 18th January in remembrance of King Naresuan the Great who fought for the freedom and unity of the Thai Kingdom,” Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand to Brunei Darussalam Her Excellency Boosara Kanchanalai said in her welcoming remarks.
“This day also serves to recognise the sacrifices of the armed forces personnel in carrying out their duties for the nation.”
Her Excellency said that in addition to its traditional role of safeguarding sovereignty, territorial integrity and constitutional monarchy, the Armed Forces are also tasked with assisting the government to address internal security and transnational issues including drug smuggling and human trafficking.
“Other responsibilities include offering social and economic development initiatives and humanitarian assistance during natural disasters.”
Ambassador Kanchanalai then highlighted the close bilateral relations of both countries including cooperation in the defence sector.
“This year, Brunei and Thailand celebrate the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations.”
“The strengthening of our defence relations was built through frequent exchanges between our armed forces that serves to foster understanding as well as build capacities by sharing experiences and best practices.”
Her Excellency shared that last year, several high-level exchanges took place including the official visit to Thailand by Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces, Major General Dato Haszaimi.
In 2023, the Royal Thai Armed Forces General Chalermpon Srisawasdi was also bestowed with great honour with the royal decoration of “The Most Exalted Order of Paduka Keberanian Laila Terbilang 1st Class (D.P.K.T).
She added that both nations engage in other military cooperation including intelligence exchange, military education exchange and regular meetings under various mechanisms within bilateral and regional frameworks.
“Next month, we are highly anticipating the port visit by three major vessels of the Royal Thai Navy. These exchanges reflect commitments from our two armed forces to further enhance the bilateral defence ties between our countries.”
“I am confident that the relations between the Thai and Brunei armed forces will continue to be enhanced in the years ahead, which will contribute to maintaining the peaceful environment of our ASEAN region.”
“I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the Royal Thai Armed Forces for successfully carrying out their duties both at home and abroad, contributing to Thailand’s and the Thai people’s honour and prestige,” concluded Ambassador Kanchanalai.
Present as the guest of honour were the Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces Major General Dato Paduka Seri Haji Muhammad Haszaimi Bol Hassan and his spouse Datin Ummisyafinah Haji Zaini who were presented with tokens of appreciation from Her Excellency Ambassador Kanchanalai.
Also in attendance were Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Defence Brigadier General (Retired) Dato Seri Pahlawan Haji Alirupendi Haji Perudin and his spouse Datin Hajah Azizah Haji Miramit.
THE BRUNEIAN | BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
