The British Embassy in Bangkok recently orchestrated a whirlwind three-day roadshow across the scenic vistas of southern Thailand. This tour marked a significant milestone as it commemorated the 170th anniversary of the diplomatic relationship between the United Kingdom and Thailand. From April 28 to 30, the embassy’s dynamic team embarked on a journey that took them to the sun-kissed islands and lush landscapes of Phuket, Phang Nga, Krabi, and Surat Thani. Their mission was not only about serious diplomacy but also about infusing some vibrant community engagement along the way.
At the helm of this diplomatic odyssey was the charismatic British Ambassador Mark Gooding. Accompanying him were the savvy Agriculture and Commercial Counsellors, each with a keen eye on sustainable tourism, agriculture, and environmental cooperation. The trip embraced the evocative theme, “Our Shared World: Environment, Wildlife, Marine, Nature, Climate, Agriculture, and Sustainable Tourism.” This wasn’t just about formal discussions behind closed doors; it was about connecting with the heart and soul of Southern Thailand.
In the ethereal setting of Phang Nga, Ambassador Gooding visited the Southern Thailand Elephant Foundation. There, he observed the quiet yet impactful UK-supported veterinary work being done for these majestic creatures. With soil on his fingers and hope in his heart, he participated in a symbolic tree planting ceremony, sowing seeds of future collaboration and environmental stewardship.
The journey continued to the coastal charm of Krabi, where eco-friendly innovations were the talk of the town at Venice Krabi Villa Resort. Here, the ambassador met with Krabi Governor Angkul Seelatheewakul, with discussions rich in promise and potential, underscoring shared visions for a greener, more resilient future.
As the sun set on this diplomatic adventure, the team headed to Surat Thani, where the spotlight turned to CP Foods’ swine production site. Britain’s high standards in food exports met Thailand’s agricultural prowess, in a meeting that promised even more fruitful collaborations. Ambassador Gooding paid a courtesy call to the affable Surat Thani Governor Theerut Supawiboonphol and over a roundtable lunch with the provincial Chamber of Commerce, sustainable tourism and agriculture found their champion.
No roadshow would be complete without a nod to the aquatic wonders of Sriwichai Shrimp Farm. Here, discussions centered around UK–Thailand cooperation in the realms of aquaculture and food security, tackling head-on the global challenge of antimicrobial resistance.
The roadshow’s grand finale was the British Fair 2025, a vibrant tapestry of cultural exchange held at the bustling Big C locations in both Phuket and Surat Thani. The fair became a stage where community warmth and diplomatic ties danced in harmony, drawing in hundreds of locals. It was a joyous celebration of cultures, replete with music, giveaways, and a feast for the senses with British product showcases. The Phuket News captured the essence perfectly, reporting on the fair’s transformation of diplomacy into a community celebration full of life and laughter.
Reflecting on the roadshow, Ambassador Gooding declared, “This roadshow has epitomized the vibrant, people-centered partnership between the United Kingdom and Thailand. Celebrating 170 years of diplomatic relations felt like a privilege, not only through esteemed engagements but, more significantly, by building bridges with communities, students, businesses, and environmental frontrunners across Southern Thailand.”
Big C CEO Aswin Techajareonvikul echoed this sentiment with pride, “We’re honored to host the British Fair, recognizing a robust trade relationship that has stood the test of time. We are committed to strengthening our commercial ties and the enduring camaraderie between our two nations.”
With more roadshows planned throughout 2025, the UK is pressing the pedal to the metal, ensuring that this historic year of Thai-British friendship is celebrated with the vigor and vivacity it deserves. Southern Thailand got a taste of diplomacy’s friendly face, and it definitely left a mark—so here’s to more fun-filled partnerships to come!
Wow, 170 years of Thai-British relations! That’s incredible. I think these roadshows are a great way to build stronger ties.
I totally agree! It’s such a creative way to engage with the community and address important issues like sustainability and tourism.
Exactly, plus it seems like they really got involved with the local culture. That’s diplomacy at its best!
Or it’s just a PR stunt to make them look good. Do you think all these efforts actually translate into real change?
You might be right, but at least they are trying to highlight crucial issues like climate change and food security.
True, but governments often make these gestures without follow-through. Actions speak louder than symbolic tree plantings.
I love that they focused on sustainable tourism and agriculture. That’s the direction every country should be heading.
It’s easy to say this, but implementing sustainable practices is a whole different ball game. It’s not as simple as the UK makes it sound.
You’re right, it’s not easy, but it’s necessary. Maybe initiatives like this can plant the seeds for bigger changes.
This sounds like a fantastic way to see the beautiful regions of southern Thailand. I wonder if regular folks can get involved in future roadshows.
I’d love to see that happen! It would be great for cultural exchange and understanding if citizens could have more engagement in diplomacy.
Exactly, bringing in more public involvement could make these initiatives resonate better with everyone involved.
The collaboration on food exports is intriguing. The partnership with CP Foods could lead to some delicious cross-cultural products!
Planting trees and discussing antimicrobial resistance is great, but let’s see some solid commitments!
I’m more interested in the tech advancements that could come from these partnerships, particularly in agriculture.
The possibilities are endless! Tech can revolutionize sustainable practices if implemented wisely.
True, technology could provide the solutions we’re looking for, especially with environmental challenges.
This roadshow just sounds like a bunch of fancy dinners and photo ops. Let’s focus on the real issues facing both countries.
I attended the British Fair, and it really did show how cultural exchange creates lasting friendships. More of this please!
That’s amazing to hear! It’s crucial for diplomacy to have a human touch instead of just policy discussions.
Absolutely. The fair made me feel like a part of something bigger, like actual people were behind the political headlines.
All these partnerships sound nice, but I hope they’re not just benefitting big corporations.
It’s a valid concern, but these collaborations can also spur local businesses and economies.
I genuinely hope that local businesses get the chance to thrive from these initiatives.
Does anyone know when the next roadshow is? I wouldn’t mind checking it out.
Mark Gooding seems like a very engaging ambassador. It’s great to see diplomacy with a personal touch.
Yes, his approach seems to be getting positive feedback. Personal engagement builds better bridges.
I hope they showcased some good British food at the fair! It’s an underrated cuisine.
I’m curious to see if any significant policy changes come from this roadshow. Otherwise, it’s just a fancy tour.