On 18 October 2024, Dr. Suriya Chindawongse, Ambassador of Thailand to the United States, hosted an exclusive Meridian Pre-Ball Dinner for the Honorable Enoh Ebong, Director of the U.S. Trade and Development Agency and other high-ranking executive from both the public and private sectors at the Ambassador’s Residence. This dinner marks the start of the evening prior to the prestigious 56^th Meridian Ball, one of Washington’s finest annual gatherings.

On this occasion, the Ambassador extended a warm welcome to distinguished guests and invited them to enjoy traditional Thai cultural performance by Somapa Thai Dance Company called the "Flower and Butterfly Dance." It describes the beauty of a flower in a garden which is surrounded by butterflies. Ambassador Suriya then treated the guests to a fine dining experience with authentic Thai food prepared by the Residence’s Chefs, allowing attendees to savor traditional Thai cuisine in a lively and memorable atmosphere.

The Meridian Ball is one of the most prestigious annual events in Washington, D.C., organized by the Meridian International Center. The center’s mission is to strengthen relationships between the U.S. and the world and to find solutions to shared global challenges. This annual event brought together business leaders, high-ranking officials from the public sector, diplomats, media, and cultural representatives at Meridian House to celebrate and strengthen cultural exchange through diplomacy.