On 3 December 2025, the Royal Thai Embassy in Washington, D.C. hosted a reception at the Fairmont Washington, D.C. Georgetown to commemorate the Birthday Anniversary of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great, National Day, and Father’s Day of Thailand 2025. The event brought together more than 300 guests, including distinguished U.S. figures led by Congressman Joe Wilson (R–SC), Chairman of the US–Thai Alliance Caucus, Congresswoman Beth Van Duyne (R–TX), and Dr. Andrew Byers, Deputy Assistant Secretary of War for South and Southeast Asia, as well as Friends of Thailand across various sectors from representatives of the U.S. government agencies and the military, members of the Diplomatic Corps, business leaders, academics, media representatives, and the Thai community in the United States.

At the beginning of the program, H.E. Dr. Suriya Chindawongse, Ambassador of Thailand to the United States, invited attendees to observe a solemn moment of silence in remembrance of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother, who passed away on 24 October 2025. A commemorative video was presented, paying tribute to Her Majesty’s enduring legacy and her profound contributions to international diplomacy, the preservation of Thai arts and crafts, the safeguarding of cultural heritage, and the advancement of the well-being of the Thai people.

The Ambassador then delivered remarks honoring the compassion and legacy of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great and Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother, while underscoring the enduring strength of Thai–U.S. relations, which have continued for over 192 years. He also paid tribute to His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua for continuing Their Majesties great tradition of promoting Thai culture and values and advancing the welfare of the Thai people, and especially in times of need including His Majesty gracious contribution to ameliorate the plight of citizens suffering from the recent flooding in Thailand. In his remarks, Ambassador Suriya highlighted the cordial and longstanding ties between Thailand and the United States which spans over 192 years through three key areas of cooperation. First, security, reflected in the 3,193 Thai soldiers who lost their lives fighting alongside U.S. troops as allies in six major conflicts and operations, as well as Thailand’s continued engagement in joint military exercises such as Cobra Gold and cooperation against transnational crime such as on-line scams. Second, economic cooperation, with Thai investment in the United States contributing to the creation of over 11,000 jobs, valued at more than 17 billion USD, and offering vast potential for future trade and investment opportunities. Third, people-to-people ties, demonstrated by the 12 Thai Prime Ministers who have pursued their studies in the United States, reflecting longstanding educational and cultural exchanges and the important role of Thai communities across the country in fostering mutual understanding and friendship. The Ambassador reaffirmed Thailand’s commitment to strengthening its alliance and strategic partnership with the United States.

During the event, Congressman Joe Wilson presented a Congressional Record honoring the life and legacy of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother. The Ambassador then invited attendees to join in a toast to His Majesty the King of Thailand and the President of the United States.

The program also featured performances of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great’s musical compositions by the DC Jazz Collective, with vocals by Ms. Pachara Poonsawat. The venue was adorned with Thai orchids provided by The Orchid Lei Company, a Thai-owned business in Hawaii, and traditional Thai cuisine was served by Sisters Thai.

The reception featured an exhibition dedicated to Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother, presenting her Royal Initiatives and contributions both at home and abroad, particularly her role in advancing Thailand–U.S. relations and preserving Thai cultural heritage. The exhibition included the “Mother of Thai Silk” display, highlighting Her Majesty’s efforts to revitalize Thai silk from community-based production to international recognition, as well as her support for mulberry cultivation, sericulture, weaving, and local handicrafts, which helped create sustainable livelihoods for rural communities. The exhibition also showcased contemporary silk products and modern Thai textile designs supported by the Queen Sirikit Department of Sericulture and the Office of Agricultural Affairs in Washington, D.C.; handicrafts from the SUPPORT Foundation of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother; and the eight styles of Chut Thai Phra Ratcha Niyom (Royal-Inspired Thai Dresses). A video presentation on Her Majesty’s contributions to Thailand’s international engagement was also featured. The AI booth offered guests an interactive experience, allowing them to appreciate the elegance of traditional Thai attire through simulated fittings of Royal Thai costumes for women and traditional Thai dress for men.

The Royal Thai Embassy expresses its sincere appreciation to Thai agencies in the United States, the Thai community, and American partners from all sectors for their collaboration in making this reception a meaningful tribute on this auspicious occasion and a reaffirmation of the strong and enduring alliance, friendship and strategic partnership between Thailand and the United States.