PHILIPPINES-THAILAND DIPLOMATIC RELATIONS DAY

RELATIONS between the Philippines and Thailand began in the 13th century in the context of Southeast Asian maritime trade. Archaeological records point not only to commercial and cultural ties but also a recognition of their political stature – Siam with its kingdoms and the Philippines with its rajahs.  By 1586, more than two decades after the Spaniards set foot in the Philippines, Siam was mentioned as a possible goal of commercial interests and physical expansion and the first contact was made between Spain and Thailand.

The Philippines and Thailand formally established diplomatic ties on June 14, 1949, when they signed a Treaty of Friendship. Relations between the two countries continue to be characterized by harmony, dynamism, and warmth. They were strengthened when they became founding members of the Southeast Asian Treaty Organization (SEATO) in 1954, ASEAN in 1967, and other regional and international forums thereafter.

Several bilateral agreements have since been signed – on defense, investment, environment, tourism, air services, and scientific, technical, agriculture, and telecommunications exchanges.

As part of her introductory tour of ASEAN countries after becoming the head of Thailand, Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra visited the Philippines on January 12, 2012. In a joint press conference during the visit, President Benigno S. Aquino III and Prime Minister Shinawatra committed to maintain their economic relationship, including the easing of trade and investment restrictions, education, exploring other areas of cooperation.

We congratulate the Philippines led by President Benigno S. Aquino III and Thailand led by His Majesty, King Bhumibol Adulyadej, and H.E., Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, on the occasion of the Philippines and Thailand Diplomatic Relations Day. The Manila Bulletin led by its Chairman of the Board Dr. Emilio T. Yap, President and Publisher Atty. Hermogenes P. Pobre, Executive Vice President Dr. Emilio C. Yap III, Editor-in-Chief Dr. Cris J. Icban Jr., and Officers greet the Philippines and Thailand on the occasion of their 63 years of diplomatic relations which have served as a warm reassurance of an even more fruitful and ensuring relationship now and in the future. MABUHAY!

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