British duke arrives on trip to enhance bilateral ties

Britain’s duke of Gloucester will arrive in Bangkok today for an official visit, signifying the strength of the UK-Thailand partnership.

The visit demonstrates the importance of the UK/Thailand relationship, and our commitment to further strengthen ties between our countries, British Ambassador to Thailand Brian Davidson said in a statement.

The duke of Gloucester is a grandson of King George V and a first cousin of the queen.

On his first day in Bangkok, the duke will tour the Jim Thompson House, a famous Bangkok residence and art collection.

In Chon Buri, the duke will tour the Triumph Motorcycles Factory and Senior Aerospace Factory. Both companies are British-owned and employ hundreds of staff in Thailand.

To mark the 75th anniversary of the Thai-Burma railway, the duke will visit Kanchanaburi province to attend a remembrance service for Commonwealth servicemen and women who gave their lives in the construction of the railway. He will also see the well-known Bridge over the River Kwai and tour its museum.

In Chiang Mai, he will visit the Royal Project Foundation Centre where he will learn more about the sustainable projects founded by His Majesty the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej. The Royal Project has always had close connections with the UK, in particular Kew Gardens, and provides excellent examples of sustainable development.

The duke will also visit the Children’s Advocacy Centre: a notable Thai government initiative that joins international NGOs and Thailand’s police units to combat child abuse, exploitation of children and human trafficking; and the Habitat for Humanity centre in Chiang Mai.

Habitat for Humanity aims to improve the quality of life of low-income Thai people by building homes and transforming communities.

On his final night in Thailand, the duke will be the guest of honour at a charity dinner hosted at the British ambassador’s residence. The menu will be curated by Michelin-starred chef Ken Hom. The event is held in partnership with the Siam Piwat Group.

The Nation 

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