On 5 November 2025, H.E. Dr Suriya Chindawongse, Ambassador of Thailand to the United States, met with Representative Virginia Ann Foxx (R-NC) at Capitol Hill to discuss ways to further strengthen Thai–U.S. relations and enhance cooperation between the two countries. Their discussion also highlighted the close ties between the two sister cities – Mount Airy, North Carolina, and Samut Songkhram, Thailand – as well as the success of the Siamese Twins Museum in Mount Airy, which stands as a meaningful symbol of the enduring connection between Thailand and the United States.

On this occasion, the Ambassador shared details of his recent trip to Samut Songkhram in late August, during which he personally delivered a letter from Dr Jon Cawley, Mayor of Mount Airy, to Mrs. Nisakorn Wisitsora-at, Governor of Samut Songkhram Province. During his visit, he also discussed with the Governor opportunities to deepen the sister-city partnership in areas of mutual interest, such as agriculture, trade, human capacity development, and culture. In return, Governor Nisakorn extended a letter of invitation to the Mayor and the Bunker family to visit the province. The Royal Thai Embassy plans to lead the Bunker family to visit Thailand next year.

The Ambassador also expressed his appreciation for the warm hospitality extended to him during his annual visit to Mount Airy for the Bunker Family Reunion in the summer. At the dinner reception with the Mayor of Mount Airy, the Ambassador was honoured with the Key to the City, a symbol of lasting friendship between the peoples of Thailand and the United States.