British Ambassador's speech at The Queen's Birthday Party 2017 in Thailand
Brian Davidson, British Ambassador to Thailand, delivered the following speech at the Queen's Birthday Party on 15 June 2017.
Thank you for joining us to congratulate Her Majesty the Queen on her 91st Birthday. And to celebrate the relationship between the UK and Thailand which is now entering its 5th Century.
Thank you all for coming tonight and particular thanks also to our generous Thai and British company sponsors.
We will now hear our two Anthems performed by the children of St Regents School Bangkok.
Ladies and Gentlemen
Our theme this evening is “Partnerships for a New Generation”. “New Generation” being not just about youth but about a new wave of innovation, research, education, trade and investment, which will form the basis of a dynamic modern partnership between the UK and Thailand.
A partnership that already sees the UK as one of the leading European investors in Thailand with a stock of c. £9 billion. And Thai investment in the UK on the increase. That sees many famous British brands already here - and represented tonight. And many more looking to use Thailand as their springboard into the ASEAN – attracted by the ambition of Thailand 4.0.
A partnership that sees the UK committing a further £9 million under the Newton Fund – to support the continued excellence of the UK /Thailand research base and innovation ecosystem.
And a partnership that this year celebrates the 65th Anniversary of British Council in Thailand. And which will further our strong collaboration on education and culture
Tonight, we are very pleased to have a range of showcases which describe our commitment to creating “Partnerships for a New Generation” and especially the four international schools here tonight – Harrow, Shrewsbury, St Regents and St Andrews – whose students and showcases truly epitomise our theme.
Please enjoy this evening – and our fantastic jazz band, from Harrow School.