Tag Archives: Interview

THE PROFILE OF THAI CHINESE EXIM ASSOCIATION

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Thai-Chinese Exim Association [in name of Chinese words—Tai Hua Jin Chu Kou Shang Hui] ,founded in 1867 which was traced back to the name as [Shan Tou Jian Gong Suo]

Initially, most of the Chinese came to settle in Siam and started business with their homeland, mainly from their compatriots in Shan Tou region of Chinese mainland, later with set up of [San Tou jiao Gong Suo] to the association in promoting trades, When the oversea marketing had covered into Hong Kong and Singapore, due to rapid growth of trading, the association fixed the final name as TCEA in term of investment and business opportunities to strengthen the ties with home and overseas, With repaid increasing volume of trading in the Southeast Asian Region, the achievement had been made as ever, over 30 years borne with glory, TCEA with its members still continue the global business all over the world

At now, the benevolence has been undertaken to win over lots of praise from Thai society, led by the current president–Mr.Kitthipong with his fellow to carry out the policies and push forward the social involvements in further achievement.

 

Reported by Darwin

THE LEGEND OF EU BEHIND THAILAND

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Interviewing with H.E. Ambassador of European Union Delegation—Mr. Jesus .Miguel Sanz

[BRIEF]

At several times in the occasions, I encountered with him, finally I was granted one opportunity of meeting him again and making interviewing with him in face to face, here are some profiles on highlight of the dialogue inside.

PART 1—THE ROLE OF EU

The whole of Europe ,after the second world war, in the 20th century stepping into the stable period of developing its economic and pushing up at height of development, the European Union used to share and enjoy its glory and splendor in the aspects of European cultural heritage and common achievements, in particular under protection of the cultural heritage and relics in Europe, nowadays ,EU possesses with quite cultural treasures over the continent, with total population of five hundred million, which consists of 28 members ,among them ,EU enjoys so high degree of freedom such as freedom of Human Rights, freedom of Speech, freedom of Labor.

EU is to fulfill its mission by bridging up the friendship internationally, through sharing of its achievements and splendors; EU has the same currency and jointly developed the common market.

EU acts as the sole representative of European continent, with its voice in the political arena of the world, it is seeking constantly its position and interests in the world.

EU, at present through the world, presents its diversity and integration into international elements in the overall image.

 

PART 2—THE TIES WITH THAILAND

In 1979, the European Union Commission delegation to Thailand was established, greatly promoted the exchanges and interaction of EU, with Thailand in friendship, EU views Thailand as a long-term dialogue partner, since the establishment the permanent partnership in cooperation and dialogue with Thailand, EU had made so many practical proposal to Thailand as most important role in the Asean, EU has actively helped Thailand to participate in the activities of Asean, Among them, the European Union also shares its achievements with ASEAN communities, where there will be good example put forward to Asean .

 

PART 3—ON AMBASSADOR

The Ambassador served as Spain’s ambassador to New Zealand, after that he acts as EU’s ambassador to Thailand. He used to act as the Spanish ambassador to the Pacific South island nations, where his footsteps left on the land of Tonga, Fiji, Samoa, Vanuatu., etc.

Three years ago, he took the delegates from EU congressmen in visiting to Thailand, meeting with many political leader and major government departments

During the period of interviewing, the Ambassador expressed that EU’s interest regarding in Thailand, during his term, he had launched the non-official dialogues with NGO and others institutions successively in Thailand, EU observes the context of the issues alike: the fighting against human trafficking, the implementation of the law of labor, the issues over labor and welfare, the efficiency of labor, the child abuses, further improving the living condition of Thailand, etc., he had proposed to Thai government by operation of the related projects,

 

PART 4—THE MUTUAL CONTACTS

1—For length of 25 years, EU has been on run the themes of culture ad film festivals in the institutions of Thailand, like in Khonkaen and Chiang Mai, in the north and the northeast region, which had reflected from the social response and effect.

2— With the promotion on higher Learning to Thailand from EU, which has set up the close cooperation among the universities of Thailand, annually the selection of the outstanding students, will be made out to Thai universities and college student within the exchange programs, the Thai graduates once complete their levels and return to Thailand in good bounce, they infill with their strength to the Thai construction.

3—EU attaches its great importance to the economic development of Thailand, and strengthen the mutual official contacts with the ministry of justice, the ministry of labor, the ministry of commerce, on the terms of the sports, tourism, trading and many other aspects of Thai governmental projects and private sectors in cooperation, EU also pay its attention to the integrations of process into the wide ranges of international intellectual copyright protection, rescue of the abused children and combat with the drug, trafficking against women and population as far as the climate changes, etc, EU moves on further and strengthen its comprehensive linkages with Thailand through gaining more understanding between the both sides, so far EU maintains its lasting ties with its partner in the steady and healthy ways.

Written by Darwin

THE PIONEER FOR TRADE AT ABROAD

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[PREFACE]

ITA was established since 1926,with 90th anniversary, the ICE-Italian Trade Promotion Agency is the Italian government organization, reporting to the Italian Ministry of Productive Activities and headquartered in Rome. ICE has 1 branch in Milan, Italy and more than 79 offices in 65 countries and regions

 

The Bangkok Office has been operating in Thailand for 35 years( since 1981), helping to link Italian entrepreneurs with Thai partners and supplies companies with commercial support.

 

Q1 – What in particular events were held in 2015 by ITA?

A1:ITA organized several trade events in 2015; those are the most significant are:

 

Trade Fair – Italian pavilion in THAILAND:

to Trade Fair in Mission to ITALY:

1.in 2015 ,leading the Thai buyers/importers in the sector of food and beverage to attend the fairs in italy

2.International Food and Drink Exhibition

3.Plastic manufacturers

4.Printing and Paper converting sectors

5.Marmomacc – Stone Processing / Architect

6.The world of metal working

7.International jewelry fair

8.motorcycle industry

 

Q2 – In 2016, what joint projects will be launched up between Italy and Thailand in the fields of arts, film ,tourim,cuisine, cultural shows, etc?

Helping with the Italian Embassy in organizing the Italian Festival in Bangkok that involves the most important italian brands presenting inside the biggest stores. last year ITA supported an event organized Crystal Design Square to promote Italian Design and Art in the furniture, decoration and life style. the events for Italian culinary Art &Gourmet held within EM Quartier, Emporium and Siam Paragon.

Q3 – Between two nations, what significant Commercial exchanges has Italy used to help Thailand, for examples, building up the infrastructure works, subway.etc?

In 2014 Bilateral Trade between Italy and Thailand, Italy is an important trading partner of Thailand No. 27 with market share of 0.83% and value of 3,784 million dollars. Importation from Italy to Thailand 2,270 million dollars and Exportation of Thailand to Italy 1,514 million dollars.

 

Import from Italy to Thailand:

Machinery and parts (24.23%)

Electrical machinery and parts (7.69%)

Chemicals (7.34%)

Other capital goods (4.78%)

Medicinal and pharmaceutical products (5.62%)

 

Export of Thailand to Italy:

Air conditioning machine and parts (8.19%)

Precious stones and jewelry (8.0%)

Motor cars, parts and accessories (7.88%)

Cuttle fish, squids and octopus, fresh, chilled or frozen (7.41%)

Rubber products (7.09%)

 

Q4 – What has ITA been making achievements before proudly for Thailand?

ITA helps the Italian companies into Thailand by offering the consultation,such as B2B meetings, marketing research,etc.,

—organizing delegations to attend the fairs, training,Seminar B2B in Italy about 100 delegates per year.

 

—organizing 4 Italian Pavilions and 7 meetings with 70 Italian Exhibitors/Companies per year in Thailand.

EMBRACE THE FRIENDSHIP IN HISTORY

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Interviewing with the ambassador of Norway to Thailand his Excellency Mr.Kjetil Paulsen

When talking about salmon, anyone will be naturally associated with one of Scandinavian countries—Norway, where is located in the northern part Of Europe, with long coastal lines. Which is well known for its fishery and modem technology in the world, due to its unique geographical situation, the country is enriched with Marine resources, especially the production of Cod and salmon whatever in quantity and quality, it has already won top brand among the world people, by coincidence, meeting in an event by Norwegian Chamber of commerce. I was lucky enough arranged to encounter the ambassador of Norway to Thailand —his Excellency Mr.Kjetil Paulsen. With an opportunity to communicate with him closely, starting my Second Cultural Trip over Norway in the Northern European countries, unveiling the mystery and beautiful facade behind it.

 

[Introduction]

Norway’s fishing industry has been famous in the world, as far as we know the output of the fishing for salmon and trout by shipping all over the world. at present, whatever in large-Size and Small Size the Chinese and western restaurants in Thailand, even though the Japanese restaurants so much popularly using the salmon and cod fish originally importing from Norway. In addition, all kinds Of fish and Marine products, including the frozen and smoked ones also almost belong to Norwegian ones, it could be said that if there was no Norway in the world, that would not be salmon fish appearing on the dining tables, with the advantageous geographical environment, there is kind Of the deep Culture in bondage of Norwegian salmon. Norway is endowed with great fortune by God, to possess with large area of ocean and natural resource like oil fields as well, up to now. With the high-tech and modern civilization to the profile of modern Norway was depicted from the ambassador Mr. Paulson in conversation with the editor, he looks great in Spirit .with Strong body and in medium height, by appearing with the pink-Cheeked expression on the face, as I was greeted by his warm welcoming to sit down, and opened up my topics selected from the aspects of the contents related to Norway. Seemingly the ambassador got previously fully prepared for fry caring today and treating me seriously, as long as nearly one hour Conversation between the ambassador and me. at the end of the interview Mr. Ambassador solemnly gave me a heavy book contented with lots of old pictures alike a big photo album, which reveals the long and elderly history behind Norway and Thailand .as in the records, the two nations have so large difference in the aspects Of culture and customs, but in a Short time. I feel like the huge gap suddenly being shortened and narrowed, due to the prior record of the exchanges and mutual visits between the two countries.

 

The part one—[the trail of history]

While opening the history book of Thailand, tracing back to one hundred years ago,by following along the footsteps of the Thai king -Chulalongkorn who was found as early as in the early years of the twenty century [in 1907|,he had started Out his first trip to Europe in which Norway was one of his study tour countries, at that time, the fishery was at advanced in Norway. as many as the advanced technology in Norway brought up the civilization and better life to Norwegians, touched by those sights, he was determined to follow up the European powers, like Norway, as he returned to home country, he had made out and advocated Several social reforms in Thailand as Start, linking with his study trip to Norway as well, one hundred years later, just few years ago. Her Majestic Royal Princess of Thailand–Sirihdorn paid an official Visit to Norway. She was interested in Norway which had already made deep research and significant breakthrough in the solution of the serious issues over World Climate Changes.

 

The part two— [through the high-tech cooperation]

Norway has made up close ties with Thai fishery industry in cooperation; it has been set up for the considerable times. the annual Seafood export from Thailand to all over the world, totally in the proportion Of year-round exports, accounting for 32%, in the electronic industry, the communication industry between Thailand and Norway ,with more even outstanding and significant achievements, such as Thailand’s dtac telecom network Co., has always been a good partnership with supports Of TELENOR Norway’s famous telecom corporation .

At the same time, the Siam Cement Company has set up the researching center in Norway, in terms of education, the exchange programs between Norway and Thailand has been operating and starting from Chulalongkorn and Tammassat university .the students ha«/e chances to enter Norway’s famous universities for further study, etc.;

 

The part 3 [the governmental projects]

1–Each year, the senior ministerial meeting is held in Thailand and Norway separately, each one take turns to run the Summit, with its purpose to discuss economic and trade cooperation between the two countries to further deepen, at the same time as the government to government cooperative projects would be put into the agenda for further discussion.

2–The Norwegian business have been jointly ventured so largely in Thailand, involving in the industry of fertilizer like [YARA]: Marine and offshore Oil operation, and Shipping industry [WILHELMSEN] as long term partners .in the mutual trade and exchanges between the two countries have been long and deeply rooted in the hearts of the two nations’ people. Norway’s oil technology has long been known in the world, naming with the foreign and project [Pension Funds]. With totaling 80 billion baht covering around the world, in Thailand .there have been received and favored from this funding by Thai companies with more than 80 % widely distributing in Thailand’s transportation, commercial organizations, the banks and Other large projects;

 

The part 4: [cultural ties on tourism]

1-Each year, the kingdom of Thailand’s embassy to the kingdom of Norway, hold large scale painting shows depicting on Thai folk Custom and Culture, focused on the theme of THAINESS which had stirred up in Norway:

2-Every year, the visitors to Thailand from Norway accounted for more than 150,000 and 8,000 Norwegian have Settled in Thailand for retirement;

3-Held in February each year, the Norwegian Chamber of commerce offering with seafood cooking shows which exhibit as themes of the Cuisine festivals held in Bangkok.

[Specially thanks to the embassy of Norway and his Excellency of ambassador with the full and great supports].

Photo by Thunvarai / Written by Darwin

THE WONDERLAND IN ARTIC LIGHT

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Interviewing with the ambassador of Finland to Thailand

Her Excellency—Ms.Kirsti Westphalen

 

[PREFACE]

Open the map of the world, at the tip of the globe. Situated near the North Pole, in this article the introduction is highlighting On Finland, which is one of the mysterious and beautiful countries in the Scandinavians also was the home-country of the legendary figure Santa Claus throughout the v/World. With its ancient Culture and long history, the advanced technology in utilizing the Solar light into modern life, hereby is linked with the cold and vast snowy land–Finland, with the interests, the editor paid a visit to the ambassador of Finland to the kingdom of Thailand .while starting with conversation, at first Sight. I was surprised by her enthusiasm from her Excellency Of the ambassador to greet me in one Chinese word [Ni Hau你好hello].Filled with warmth and hosted by the Seat, so entering the story of this Northern European countries by making me leaving a long time memory over this Cultural tour.

 

Part 1: [THE UNIQUE LOCATION]

due to its unique geographical location, there have as long as six weeks in one year round, people can enjoy watching the spectacle in the aurora borealis. which is called as the world’s rare natural landscape, like the gorgeous halo in dazzling, anyone only once witness it all in winter, but in Summer, it appears in the whole day long, everyone is living in the day light, with no nights, as if nobody fear the darkness in life, the aortic light making the infinite daydreams to human as far as leading the beautiful memories in the life, miraculously, the nature renders Finland so amazingly even like the paradise of Eden, thus the design of the national flag originated from the Finnish famous poet .through his mind, the masterpiece which was interpreted as [the white symbolizing as the vast snowy land : [the blue Cross! meaning as the crisscrossed lakes, making this country added with more romance.

 

Part 2: [MIXED WITH CULTURE & TECHNOGY]

All over the world， Finland is endowed with the long history and colorful complex of Cultures, including the folk festivals and Celebration, living throughout the long winter times, the gourmet days is marked as one of very good activates, at that days, the households open up stalls in front of the courtyards, on display of the exclusive cuisines on their own, walking down along the street, the famous Cuisine Culture originated from the legends as in the early times, In terms of High-Tech. NOKIA is the world famous brand of electronic products, marketing all ever the world, as the world’s best recognized degrees, the Finn won national pride of the industry; Secondly: KONE elevator marks as an important brand in the world; besides, In the aspects of health care, education, energy use, paper production and forestry etc.. Finland is one of the world’s leaders in these areas which offer many technical experiences to the world.

Around Finland where is surrounded by the thousands of lakes, enriched with abundant resources of aquatic products in availability to the country and abroad. Finland is adjacent to the vast Oceans that make it possible into the channel construction; the Ship-building industry has been noted as the advanced level, furthermore, in research of Cultivation to the organic food. Finland has also been leading ahead as well in the world.

 

Part 3: [THE PIONEERING EDUCATOR)

At present, the cooperation between Finland and Thailand has been made Step by step in the education, led by TEMA from Finland Bangkok education teams with the delegates of the excellent professional teams being Sent frequently into Thai universities, with the purpose Of training and promoting Thai teachers into high level, as much as we know .Finland is proud of possessing with the advanced educational system and teaching approaches called as [METHOLOGY). Particularly, showing its strength in the fields of languages, math, biology and physics., etc .with aids of the methods from Finland, with aids of the methods from Finland. Surely, Thailand will be promptly upgraded and improved into bettering Standard, with equivalent to those levels raised and practiced in the Asean Community, generally speaking. Thailand would be delighted in accepting the cooperative ways and make possible to enhance the local faculty in the capital Bangkok, so far, the overall level of education in Thailand would be benefit from the mutual exchanges in the context of education, in the future, the successful examples would be followed up and the good approaches Shared among 76 provinces of Thailand nationwide, in addition, the ambassadress stressed that the joint project was required to be persistent and long lasting for further cooperation mutually.

In end, the ambassador mentioned, in recent years, with the increasing numbers of Thais visiting to Finland, there are about 150,000 Finns visiting to Thailand per year; the trading and cultural exchanges between the two countries have been witnessed, especially the traveling to Finland, many Thais dare to see the arctic light on their own. try appreciating the beauty of the arctic scenery, as well as tasting Nordic cuisines, for vast areas of the snowy landscape which renders so unimaginable and memorable trips to Thais. In terms of new and renewable energy used for environmental protection,Finland, which still has been leading and playing an important role in ecological way worldwide, by maneuvering the best solution of how to save the natural resources and making a deep research in solar energy utilizing, the households in Finland have been benefiting from the Hi-Tech innovation brought into the modern daily life, of course. Finland has accumulated with the rich experiences in the methods of renewable light technology, hopefully in the near future, living in Thailand with the Strong sunshine. Thais also can enjoy the new life in which the energy power renewable to bring up more prospects from Finland, together stepping into a new era Of Solar Light Times.

–Great thanks to the embassy Of Finland to Thailand and the ambassador with full supports of the information related provided–

 

Photo by Kinphet / Written by Darwin

THE FRIENDSHIP ESTABLISHED ACROSS THE CENTURIES

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[PROFILE]

While anyone talks of Switzerland, naturally could be associated with the excellence of the watch industry and the hotelier management &service industry noted at high prestige around the world, endowed with a long history behind, there had been existing so much splendor between two nations, the Thai royal family had left their footsteps at early years in Switzerland, adding up a closer link with the diplomatic relations, engraved with historical memory and deep friendship along the centuries. Therefore, at this time, the editor in chief paid a special visit to the embassy of Switzerland to Thailand and had an interviewing with H.E. the ambassador of Switzerland—Mr.Evo Sieber, by starting up with the exploration of trip over Switzerland, so as to discover the legend behind two countries.

 

PART 1—The History On Bilateral Relations

The first documented contacts between Switzerland and Thailand dated back to the 17th century, when Swiss missionaries had published the reports on their visits to the Kingdom of Siam. In the 19th century, the Swiss textile industrialists started to be looking for new markets in south-east Asia.

The Kingdom of Siam joined the Universal Postal Union in Bern and the Geneva Red Cross Convention as long ago as 1895. After the first visit by the Thai monarch to Switzerland in 1897, the representatives of the two countries negotiated the conclusion on treaty of Friendship and Trade Agreement; however, it was not signed until 1931, Switzerland opened up an Honorary Consulate in Bangkok in 1932, and established the embassy in 1949. The today-used compound of Swiss embassy was planned and constructed by the Swiss architect Hans Hofmann in 1957.

The Swiss feel privileged that His Majesty King BhumibolAdulyadej who had spent 17 years of his formative years in Switzerland, an experience that experts believe influenced His Majesty’s prudent policies on sufficiency and sustainability, which are of relevance more than ever today. The Thai Royal family links with Switzerland have had a positive impact on the respectful image our two peoples have of each other. This has led to multiple people-to-people contacts and projects in both countries. Moreover, the strong presence of Swiss companies in Thailand combined with tourism and the significant numbers of Thai citizens in Switzerland and of Swiss citizens in Thailand have all helped to strengthen ties between the two countries.

For more information: https://www.eda.admin.ch/eda/en/home/laender-reise-information/thailand/schweiz-thailand.html

 

PART 2–Involved into Economic Ties

As differently between Thailand and Switzerland there may seem in terms of its geographical size, historical and cultural background, but the two countries do share several parts of significances in similarities through strengthening the economic ties, in which great numbers of export and services are made upon the both sides.

The both countries possesses with the setting of natural beauty that attract great numbers of increasingly the tourists per year. In the year of 2015, the number of Thais visiting to Switzerland increased by 25% (compared to 2014) with more than 97,000, and there have been over 200,000 visitors from Switzerland to Thailand every year.

The Swiss economic presence in Thailand dated back to in the early 1900’s, for example, the Swiss company Diethelm (today DKSH) or the BerliJucker Company (BJC) was established in the region, other companies had followed. Today, there have been around 150 Swiss companies established in Thailand employing around 40,000 employees,the Swiss-Thai Chamber of Commerce is linkage with the Swiss commercial communities in thialand.    www.swissthai.com).

Thailand is Switzerland’s 2nd most important trading partner in the ASEAN region. Switzerland is Thailand’s 12th trading partner and 11th foreign investor, which is significantly considered that Switzerland has only 8.4 million people in population.

In 2015, Swiss exports to Thailand increased by around 11%, up to 4.66 Mia USD and hence is Thailand’s 12th largest import partner (larger than e.g. France, India, Great Britain, Russia). Especially Swiss consumption and luxury goods depend on so much on the share-markets of Thailand, such as the pharmaceutical products or machineries and precision instruments for the processing industry.

The Swiss Enterprise promotes their business globally through its hub in Singapore. The Swiss Embassy in Bangkok tries to ensure the governmental framework in function and build up the infrastructure for S-GE and Swiss companies, Switzerland has set up its business environment internationally, which shines through quality, precision, uniqueness, reliability, tradition, design, and innovation, these are said in just a few words that highlight on, for example,the Swiss watch-making industry.

On term of federalism and direct democracy, which reflect the great importance on the Swiss political system on term of the freedom and self-determination, within the strong economy and stable political system, combined with an active foreign policy are the key ingredients to Switzerland’s success. Switzerland moreover has a well-educated labor force and is thus able to meet the demands of their customers and high standards of quality.

Both Thailand and Switzerland are located in the heart of the continents. Hence, logistics and the railway system play a crucial role. As a Swiss milestone and to further the global railway history to another stage, Switzerland opened the world’s longest railway tunnel, the “Gotthard Base Tunnel”, on 1 June 2016. The 57 kilometers long tunnel through the Swiss Alps not only connects Switzerland and Europe in a much faster and convenient way, but also represents Swiss values such as innovation, precision and reliability to the world (http://www.gottardo2016.ch/en).

 

[BACKGROUND]

 

On Swiss economy:

 Switzerland ranks its position in the fifth highest gross domestic product (GDP) per capita around the world. At the end of 2012, Swiss GDP per capita stood at CHF 74,010 (approx. EUR 61,300 or USD 81,000).

About 72% of Swiss GDP is generated by the service sectors and 27% by industry. The contribution from the agricultural sectors is less than 1%.

The European Union (EU) becomes Switzerland’s main trading partner. Around 60% of Swiss imports resource from the EU, while 60% of Swiss exports are destined to EU countries.

Most Swiss firms (over 99%) belong to the small- and medium-sized enterprises [SMEs] which are defined as companies with less than 250 employees.

The ratio of the public debt-to-GDP in Switzerland has fallen considerably in recent years, comparatively said that the figures dropped from 54.6% in 1998 to 36.4% in 2012.

Switzerland has the lowest rate of value-added tax in Europe. 8% is levied on most goods and services, 3.8% on accommodation services, and 2.5% on basic necessities and other everyday items.

For more information: https://www.eda.admin.ch/aboutswitzerland/en/home/wirtschaft/uebersicht/wirtschaft—fakten-und-zahlen.html

 

PART 4—On terms of Education:

 Switzerland has variety of the top-ranking educational fields. The Swiss feels privileged that His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej had spent up his early years as length of 17 years in Switzerland, Lausanne. The City of Lausanne has moreover possessed with the privilege of being the home of the Royal Thai pavilion in Denantou Park, as one of its beloved green spaces on the shores of Lake Geneva. This is a gift from His Majesty King Bhumibol of Thailand, in appreciation of the years he had spent in studying in Lausanne (http://www.lausanne.ch/en/lausanne-en-bref/lausanne-un-portrait/une-visite/se-balader/pavillon-thailandais.html ).

Her Royal Highness Princess MahaChakriSirindhorn, the daughter of His Majesty King BhumibolAdulyadej of Thailand, who used to live in Lausanne, presided over the inauguration of the pavilion on 17 March 2009. The film “Royalementnôtre” traced back the history and the construction of the pavilion. Recently, for the first time in history, the fascination of His Majestic childhood in Switzerland are shown in the documentary series, “Paendin Wai Yao” on TNN 24(TrueVisions Channel 16 and 777) and on True4U (TrueVisions Channel 24)(http://www.nationmultimedia.com/life/Growing-up-in-Switzerland-30287683.html).

In Switzerland the 26 Cantons are responsible for compulsory education, whereas the Cantons and the Confederation share their own responsibilities for continuing education (such as vocational training, upper-secondary schooling, universities and professional education and training).

The Swiss VET (vocational education and training) system enables young people to enter the labor market and ensures that there are enough qualified workers and managers in the future. The VET sector is closely correlated with the labor market and is an integral part of the education system.

Training is geared to the actual demand for vocational qualifications and to the jobs available. Thanks to this direct connection to the labor market, Switzerland has one of the lowest rates of youth unemployment in Europe.

The institutes of higher education can be separated into two types having the same status but with different educational goals: the traditional universities (12 in total) and the universities of applied sciences (UAS). Switzerland offers great education in hospitality and tourism management.

Switzerland is very competitive in the field of research and innovation. Switzerland currently holds leading positions in a number of international rankings in research and innovation, in terms of academic publications in relation to population size or in terms of patent applications, for example. In addition, Swiss academic publications are highly regarded among the international scientific community. Switzerland’s involvement in the competitive EU framework and program continues to produce successful results, with Switzerland taking a leading place in both success rates of approved applications and acquired funding.

In practice, Switzerland has many research centers in various fields and attracts top level scholars and researchers from all over the world. For example the European Organization for Nuclear Research (“CERN”) operates the largest particle physics laboratory in the world and is based in Meyrin, Switzerland.

Switzerland is at top level also among the countries with the highest expenditure on R&D in relation to its gross domestic product. Every year Switzerland spends close to 3% of its GDP, more than CHF 16 billion (around CHF 13 billion or USD 18 billion), on term of research and development. Over three-quarters of the funding come from the private sectors. Public research funding hinges mainly on the proactive work of researchers, the principle of competition and international cooperation.

For more information: http://www.sbfi.admin.ch/themen/index.html?lang=en

 

Part 5—Go Into Cultural Interaction:

 In April 2016, the Embassy of Switzerland launched the Swiss Cultural Fund ToThailand (http://swissculturalfundthailand.org/index.htm) to develop a wide range of cultural events and projects in all fields of culture such as (film, music, literature, photography, theatre, etc.) under sponsorship by the Swiss companies.

Switzerland has strong relationship with Thailand in the field of Buddhism as well. In 1984, the association “Wat Thai” was founded with the support of Thai Royal family. In 1993, there was a Buddhist center located in Gretzenbach completed and named after the mother of His Majesty King BhumibolAdulyadej, “Wat Srinagarindravararam” (www.wat-srinagarin.com). Another Buddhist monastery is located in Kandersteg, namely the “Dhammapala” (http://dhammapala.ch/home-eng/). In the community the learners follows the examples of Thai Forest Tradition with the main inspirational Thai master AjahnChah behind.

 

[WITH SPECIAL THANKS TO THE EMBASSY AND AMBASSADORR OF SWITZERLAND TO THAILAND, PROVIDED WITH SUFFICIENT FILES AND PHOTOS RELATED]

 

Photo by Kingphet / Reported by Darwin

AN IRON FRIENDSHIP FORGED OVER 500 YEARS

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A special visit with the New Portuguese Ambassador to Thailand—H.E. Mr.Francisco Vaz Patto

[Introduction]

Open a map of Europe and you will see a small country in the lower left hand corner. This is Portugal, a continental Europe’s most western nation, close to Africa and facing the vast Atlantic Ocean. Throughout history, this ocean bid the Portuguese to set sail and discover many fascinating places around the world. In the 15th and 16th centuries, Portugal reached its peak as a leader in European shipbuilding technology. Portugal played a leading role in the world’s ocean supremacy. Her sailors travelled and visited places unknown to Europeans on every continent including Asia. Over 500 years ago in 1511, Portuguese ships reached a land called Siam. Thus began an unbroken chain of friendship that continues to this very day.

Part 1—[Friendly Ties]

At first, the main goal of the Portuguese was trade. After arriving in Ayuttaya, Siam’s capital city, they set up a trading post and did business with the local people establishing trade between Siam and Portugal. A few years later, in 1517, The Treaty of Alliance and Trade were signed. A Portuguese consulate was opened in Ayuttaya. Portuguese soldiers were sent to protect Portuguese interests and these soldiers were soon asked to help protect the royal family and palace in Ayuttaya. As time passed, people continued to come to Siam (later called Thailand) from Portugal, some Portuguese married into local families and by the 18th century the Portuguese community in Ayuttaya was numbered at about 3,000 people.

Part 2—THE RECORD IN HISTORY

The trade between Portugal and Thailand included spices, coffee, fiber, machines, guns, and other Western style articles. From Thailand they bought back many raw materials, rice, and other agricultural products. Trade prospered and thrived along Chao Phraya River and helped build up Thai prosperity. In the late 18th century, history tells us about the removal of the capital of Thailand from Ayuttaya to Thonburi, then again to Bangkok. The Portuguese communities also moved at this time, The location of the Portuguese Embassy and Residence in Bangkok, on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, was due to the allocation of land from His Royal Majesty, Rama II. Today, almost 200 years later, the Embassy and Residence still operate in the same location. A beautiful banyan tree still spreads its branches in the garden and the glorious Chao Phraya River flows ever constant in front of the beautiful Portuguese Residence.

Part 3—THE GLORY IN MONUMENT

The Portuguese brought much of their culture with them to Thailand. An important part of this was their religion. They built Roman Catholic churches in Thailand. In Bangkok today we can still see these churches, especially Holy Rosary (originally named Calvary and called “Kalawar” in Thai) and Santa Cruz which proudly stand on the banks of the Chao Phraya. And the oldest Catholic Church in Bangkok, named Conception. In the past, the churches used to serve as a window to help people better know Portugal. Sometimes, the churches were also viewed as shelters or places of protection.

Part 4—CULTURAL INFLUENCES

We can see many influences today in modern Thai that have Portuguese origins. Some examples are alike: KANOM FARANG, THONGYIB/THONGYOD/FOITHONG desserts derived from Portuguese. Some Thai words and names such as Sala/Saboo/kanompang (Sala, Sabao, Pao) in spelling similar to Portuguese sounds and meanings and show the influence of Portuguese culture and language on Thailand over the centuries.

Part 5—ENTERING A NEW ERA

In the 20th and 21st centuries, there have been new movements to help foster trade between Portugal and Thailand. Joint ventures have recently made many new investments in both countries. Portuguese exports to Thailand currently include: wine, cork, textiles, and auto accessories. Thai exports to Portugal currently include: auto accessories, rice, rubber and agricultural products.

Part 6—OFFICIAL EXCHANGES

1—The study of the Portuguese language is alive and well in Thailand! Chulalongkorn University in Bangkok offers bachelor level courses for over 30 years. At Thamasat and Kasetsart Universities, Portuguese professors have been also teaching the Portuguese language.

2–Academic exchanges have thrived between universities in Lisbon, Coimbra and Porto and many Thai universities. Joint programs, student and professor visits and courses in many departments are offered, including: engineering, English, technology and education.

3–In 2011 to mark the 500th anniversary of the establishment of bilateral diplomatic relations between Thailand and Portugal, the Royal Thai Princess Srihdorn paid a visit to Portugal where she was received warmly. The Portuguese embassy works hard to promote cultural exchanges between the two counties. They have presented a Portuguese Film Festival that helps introduce elements of modern Portuguese life to Thais. In October 2016 a famous Portuguese pianist will perform in Thailand.

Part 7—FOLK EXCHANGES

At present, there are around 240 trading Portuguese companies managing the trade between the two countries.

Each year approximately 38,000 Portuguese tourists visit Thailand; and about 27,000 Thais visit Portugal.

In Rachaburi province, the local football club has hired some Portuguese football players for their team.

[BRIEF]

He graduated from the University of Lisbon, with a master’s degree in European law. He worked as a diplomat at the Portuguese Embassies in Angola, Belgium, Germany and at the Mission of Portugal to the United Nations in New York. He began his appointment as the Portuguese ambassador to the Kingdom of Thailand in October, 2015.

[WITH SPECIAL THANKS TO EMABSSY AND THE AMBASSADOR OF PORTUGAL TO THAILAND ACCEPTING US IN THE SOLE INTERVIEWING]

Photo by Kingphet / Written by Darwin

A COUNTRY ABUNDANT AMID THE FLOWERS AND MILK

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Interviewing with the ambassador of the Netherlands to Thailand—H.E.Mr.Karel Hartog

As a nation, it is crowned as the nation of tulip, with its blooming flowers industry so strong all over the world, secondly ,it is marked with its strength in the worldwide producing the famous milk products, with its breeding cows and milk in premium quality, this country is called [NETHERLAND] today, I was luckily enough invited to enter a garden like embassy to interview with Dutch ambassador to Thailand—H.E.Mr.Karel Hartogh, at beginning of talking with him ,due to a chance encountered with him before ,knowing more about his diplomatic ability, within this moment, so getting closer to the Netherlands and its story.

The First Part —FRIENDLY TIES

The establishment of diplomatic ties between Holland and Thailand can be traced back to 1604, with a history of 412 years. To commemorate the 400th anniversary of diplomatic relations between two countries, the Queen of the Netherlands paid an official state visit to Thailand in 2004. Between the both societies, which caused a big stir, the Dutch queen had left her footprints across Thailand, so as to commemorate the special event, to mark the significance of her majestic visiting, especially in Ayutthaya Thailand, establishing a memorial museum called Baan Hollanda. Apart from being a museum, Baan Hollanda has also turned into a cultural center where tourists and Thai can, apart from getting information about the Dutch history in Ayutthaya, learn about present Dutch culture.

The Second Part—ON GOODWILL

The Dutch embassy has submitted a lot of the useful suggestions and practical measures to the Thai government, such as: promotion of Thailand Economics Development by improving its bidding for overseas investments, and proposing on bettering and fostering more convenient economic environment, as well as the upgrading to Thai food safety and sanitary controls, in aspects of natural environmental protection with aids of enactments of laws and regulations, etc. In the past years, Thailand had made the noticeable results till now.

The Netherlands, in terms of environmental protection and water management, with its internationally prestigious ability, has gained with the rich experience in many ways, especially enable to offer helping hands to Thailand stepping out of the present problems incurred, in coping with the river pollution, the disposal of waste water cross the land, with more, the inadequacy of water resource threatening so many nationwide.

In the past few years, the natural hazards like floods causing the great damages over Thailand, and currently facing with the drought, such as rare cases of natural phenomenon in Thailand, the negative impacts heavily imposed onto the government of Thailand so as to hand with those natural negative efforts, Thailand should learn from Holland to deploy the advanced method and with high-tech means .Thailand is facing a big challenge, the Dutch ambassador said that he would like to cooperate with Thai public sectors and the government together to solve the environmental problems.

The Third Part—THE RELATIONSHIP

The Netherlands will increase its investment in Thailand and make further promotion for the Netherland’s export into Thailand, and Thai exports of products to the Netherlands in which parts via Rotterdam are transported to other European countries. The Netherlands is one of most important partners to Thai exporters in Europe. Based on the long-term cooperation between the two countries, focused on the principles and policies concerned over Thai export trade, Thailand needs to improve its relevant strategies by introducing some flexible measures and regulations to facilitate with the rapid increases in the volume of trades between two countries.

The Fourth Part—THE ACADEMIC LINKAGE

In the field of education, the universities are famous for the majors in law, economics through the world, the set up of the academic relation had been evidently shown such as Chulalongkorn University and Tamassat University have been incorporated the international student exchange programs with Holland, annually, many of Thai graduates returned from Holland , forming the association of Thai Alumni to Dutch Universities with more than 400 members , which has witnessed as signal of the successful example of educational cooperation between two countries.

In addition, there is an initiative named Orange ASEAN Factory. During a three-week program, 25 students and entrepreneurs from ASEAN-countries and the Netherlands are working on business-cases for major Dutch and Southeast-Asian companies to solve environmental and sustainability issues. The central theme of the next edition in Bangkok (20 June- 8 July) is the Orange ASEAN ‘Food Challenge’, concerning issues like food security, decreasing food waste and producing healthy food.

The Fifth Part—-THE OFFICIAL ROLES

Whenever the Dutch important days come by, like the Dutch King’s birthday, and celebration to other important public holidays, the embassy in the Netherlands run the themed festivals in these periods, and opens to Thais inside the embassy garden, in which there is a museum like the white wooden house in front of its board sign marked with a big orange word—HOLLAND for photographing, mostly as usual like the shows on dance, music performance, exhibition and festivals full of Dutch delights and cultures, all efforts are contributive to Thais for more understanding about Holland and further to consolidate with bilateral relationship as far as deepen the friendship in folks.

Currently, there are more than 300 Dutch in Thailand to run their own companies, which strongly are connecting the ties with the both nations in promoting trade as well.

There are 200,000 Dutch tourists visiting Thailand each year, and between 10,000-20,000 Dutch people living in Thailand. There were 11,000 Thai applications for a Schengen visa in 2015.

 The Six Part—THE FLOWERY WINDOWS

The Netherlands is one of the highly developed European countries, with its strength in the agriculture especially in the cultivation of flower, Holland is crowned as the nation of Tulip, every year there are numerous export of flower from the Netherlands to Thailand, which nourish the blooming markets in flower as well as the varieties of eco-product, in the streets of Bangkok, seen with its fragrance and charming.

Dutch dairy products have been noted for its high quality, in long term favored by the consumers the entire world. For that reason, Thailand will be introduced with the famous brand–Dutch Lady in series of products, at the supermarkets to meet with demands from Thais.

 The Seven Part—THE PROSPECTS

Finally, nearly coming to the end of the interviewing with the ambassador, he seemingly intended to speak up more with no pauses, when the topics fell on the economic development of Thailand, the ambassador put more emphasis on the importance of Thai investment in the environment. The functions of the public sectors ought to put forward to work with the embassy in search of the solution to the severe problems of water drought, his remark was so friendly and his mind was so broad, even his opinions were full with intelligence. He expected that Thailand needed improve in other areas, but he could wait on and look forward to prospects in close ties between two countries. Thailand plays an important role in ASEAN countries, within future, the way is widening between both, left behind with the long history, during his tenure, and he would continue to carry on the mutual relationship forward.

[With special thanks to embassy and ambassador of Netherland to Thailand embassy with photos and files related providing above]

Photo by Kingphet / Written by Darwin

THE ECHOES OF TAP DANCES OVER THE EMERALD LAND

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[Introduction]

with the flashing shinny brands, so popular in the world, like the pop music band U2 in last late century, as well as the exciting rhythms of TAP DANCES and the excellent beer–GUINESS, everyone can easily associate those names with one country in Europe—Ireland, which is well famous for its cattle raising and poultry husbandry around the world; now it turns out to be the manufacturing exporter; recognized as[the Emerald in Europe] as well as the [Green Farm and Pasture],filled with the curiosity and interests, stepping into Irish oasis in Bangkok, personally I paid a visit to Irish ambassador to Thailand—His Excellency Mr. Brendan Roger, he appears so gently and warmly to welcome the editor into his new spacious office with the panorama view of green park below, while we started up with the conversation ,revealing into the fairy land.

[BRIEF]

With total population of five million people in Ireland ; during the50’s and 60’s of the last century, Ireland used to be a poor nation which was dependent on agriculture in Europe, in 1973, Ireland joined in the European Union, so as to increase its rapid economic development and enhance its national financial power, after the 80’s, Ireland was fast driven and highly developed into the new era in the fields of software, biological engineering as the major leading industries in the world, the whole nation was pushed up and transformed into the world level manufacturer, so far Ireland creates the good environment for foreign investment by attracting a large number of the overseas capital. Annually the exporting trade is up to 500 billion Euros; while the national incomes in service exceed 100 billion Euros.

 

[THE NATIONAL FLAG]

It consists of three colors: green, white and orange. the Green represents the green island; the Orange represents the honor and wealth; the White symbolizes the permanent peace, unity and friendship, the symbol of Irish people look for the bright future in pursuit of freedom, democracy and peace.

On March 17 is the National Day of Ireland.

 

[THE NATIONAL EMBLEM]

It contains the Sky blue shield and harp, the sky blue, which is symbol of the Irish sea and blue sky under the protection of the shield, the harp is loved by Irish people, it is viewed as the angel of music, with its meaning of peace, and love.

 

[THE WORLD LEVEL BRAND]

BOTOX is one of the world’s brand in the cosmetics, in particular for skin care, it becomes a contribution to the world’s beauty ; GUINESS beer is one of the world famous beer brand, like Whiskey ,loved by people all over the world.

 

[THE ORIGIN OF TAP DANCE]

[TAP DANCES] gives the world people in the beautiful melody, with enthusiasm, it is so bold and unrestrained to show off the spirit of Irish people.

 

[THE LARGEST LIVESTOCK EXPORTER】

Ireland’s livestock and poultry rank No.1 in the world, whatever in the yield and quality, all over the world as the largest exporter in meat and poultry, Ireland becomes the world’s top producer in the agricultural industry.

 

[THE WORLD CLASS EDUCATION]

Irish education rank the top level in the world, such as university of Dublin and Cork University are both outstanding ones in Europe.

 

[POWER OF FOOTBALL]

Irish soccer is one of the strongest team in the world, currently in Bangkok ,there is Irish football fan club named as [THAI SAELIE FOOTBALL CLUB], soon to be held in Thailand ,there will be available football games from Asian Region, mainly from the football clubs in Asia.

 

[CHARITY IN THAILAND]

As we know, Ireland is one of religious countries, with its religious atmosphere and culture heavily influenced to Irish people, the new Irish embassy in Thailand, still push forward the noble deeds so broadly into Thailand, by offering the donation and charity to Thailand, like the funding to local schools and orphanages in Kongkaen in Northern Thailand, the donators from FRRAY FOUNDATION, MERCY CENTRE BANGKOK, FETIMA CNETRE and many non-governmental organizations, they not only help to foster Thai youngsters in Thailand, but also make a contribution in bridging up the ties in the folklore of Thailand.

 

[MULTIPLS EXCHANGES]

on March 17, is the National Day of Ireland, and Ireland Every year there are 70,000 Irish visiting to Thailand; and about 10,000 Thais going to Ireland instead; right now, There are 3,000 Thais settling in Ireland with marriage.

The Chamber of commerce Ireland Thailand, playing an important role in building up the linkages and friendship, which acts as the inseparable consultant for the private sectors going into the investments and trading.

 

[THE DIPLOMATIC TIES]

In September 2014, the Royal Thai princess Sridhorn paid a formal visit to Ireland; she travelled lots around Ireland and made a study tour to the farming industry and other fields, so as to promote largely the diplomatic establishment of two countries.

The Irish embassy in Thailand was set up in 2015 , while in the opening ceremony of the Irish embassy, the distinguished guests from high ranking officials of the ministry of foreign affairs on both nations came at spot to congratulate on its inauguration, which marks the good relations and close ties between the both nations, consequently in 2017 ,the Royal kingdom of Thai embassy in Ireland will be completed.

[With the great thanks to Irish embassy and the ambassador to Thailand for supporting us with the photos and documents]

 

Written by Darwin