Message for Portugal National Day in Thailand
HE Ambassador Luiz de Albuquerque Veloso
On the occasion of Portugal National Day, it is with great honour and warmest wishes that we celebrate this important and historic day. June 10th marks not only the commemoration of Portugal identity, but also a celebration of the enduring spirit, rich heritage and global influence of the Portuguese people.
In this context, I would like to stress that Portugal National Day is not, as usual, an anniversary of a battle, independence or some other political or historical event, but the commemoration of the life and legacy of a poet, Luís de Camões, Portugal’s greatest XVI century poet who celebrated so intensely and profoundly the “Portuguese soul”. I do believe we are the only country in the world doing so.
As its long opening to the world, Portugal shares with Thailand a long and remarkable history of friendship, which dates back more than 514 years. The first Ambassador of Portugal was sent to the Kingdom of Siam during the Ayutthaya period, in 1511, making it the oldest diplomatic connection Thailand has with a European nation. The ties that were first forged through trade and cultural exchange have continued to grow and evolve over the centuries, becoming a strong foundation for modern cooperation and mutual respect.
Today, our partnership continues to flourish, and we see the fruits of this relationship in diverse areas - education, culture, tourism, business and diplomacy. The Portuguese community in Thailand, as well as Thai students and professionals who have engaged with Portugal, play a vital role in fostering greater understanding between our peoples. Celebrations like Portugal National Day offer an opportunity to reflect on our shared past as we look ahead with optimism toward deeper collaboration.
As, on this Day, we honour Portugal’s national identity, we are reminded of the values we share with Thailand - peace, dialogue and bilateral and multilateralism in relations between states and the pursuit of mutual benefit. Portugal's contributions to the world, from literature and maritime exploration to modern diplomacy and sustainable innovation, inspire admiration across borders. On this joyful occasion, we celebrate not only the achievements and culture of Portugal, but also the enduring friendship between our two nations.
I extend my heartfelt congratulations to His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun and the Royal Family, the Thai Government and other Authorities as well as the Portuguese community and all friends of Portugal on this special day.
May this special relationship between Portugal and Thailand continue to grow and thrive, bringing benefits to our peoples for many centuries to come.
Viva Portugal! Long live the friendship between Portugal and Thailand!
