Message by Her Excellency Shirley Dennise Aguilar Barrera
Ambassador of the Republic of Guatemala to the Kingdom of Thailand
on the auspicious occasion of the 204th Anniversary of the National Day of Guatemala
15 September 2025
It is a true honour to deliver this message, on behalf of the Government and people of the Republic of Guatemala, to the people of Thailand and the readers of Elite+ magazine, on the occasion of the commemoration of the 204th anniversary of the independence of our beloved Guatemala.
On this significant occasion, we proudly celebrate more than two centuries of sovereignty, resilience and national identity. It is also a moment to reflect on the enduring values of freedom, unity and progress that have shaped the spirit of our nation.
Representing my country in the Kingdom of Thailand fills me with immense pride and gratitude. In 2025, we continue to strengthen the bonds of friendship between Guatemala and Thailand, relations that were formally established on 7 March 1957 and have now flourished for over six decades. Throughout this journey, our nations have moved forward with renewed purpose, guided by mutual respect and the shared aspiration of building a brighter, more equitable future for our peoples.
Since the reopening of the Embassy of Guatemala in Bangkok in December 2019, we have worked tirelessly to promote dialogue, cooperation and opportunity across a wide array of sectors. Today, the vitality of our partnership is reflected in the growing collaboration between our peoples and governments. A recent milestone, the inclusion of Guatemala in Thailand’s visa exemption program, is a testament to the trust and closeness that defines our bilateral relations. This step will undoubtedly foster deeper exchanges in tourism, culture, education and business.
“View of the Cathedral and the Central Park of Antigua Guatemala, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved Spanish Baroque architecture and cobblestone streets. Once the capital Guatemala, the city is a major cultural and historical landmark in Central America.”
Photo credit: Andrea Tórtola
Guatemala, a land of rich traditions, vibrant languages and colourful festivities, is also a country of economic dynamism and potential. Key sectors such as agroindustry, processed foods, textiles and apparel, chemicals and pharmaceuticals, electrical products, information technology services and tourism, represent not only our competitive strengths but also new bridges to connect with Thailand and the broader Southeast Asian region in meaningful and innovative ways.
As we celebrate this Independence Day, I extend my deepest appreciation to the people and Government of the Kingdom of Thailand for their enduring friendship, hospitality and openness. Together, we are building new bridges of cooperation, cultural exchange and economic development that reaffirm our shared vision for a peaceful and prosperous future.
We deeply value the bonds of friendship and cooperation that exist between Guatemala and Thailand. As we mark this important milestone in our national history, we wholeheartedly reaffirm our commitment to strengthening the ties that unite our countries and to working hand in hand in pursuit of peace, sustainable development and mutual prosperity.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Government and people of Thailand for their continued goodwill and partnership, and we look forward to many more years of fruitful and dynamic collaboration.
¡Viva Guatemala! ¡Viva la amistad entre Guatemala y Tailandia!
Shirley Dennise Aguilar Barrera,
Ambassador of the Republic of Guatemala to the Kingdom of Thailand
