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() ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()56 91. 57 92. 58 93. () TO BE NUMBER ONE ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()59 94. () 60 95. () () 61 96. . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 97. 63 98. . . . . . 64 99. .65 100. () , ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()66 101. , .67 102. () . . . . . . . . 68 103. () , .________________________________________________________________________________________ ()69 104. () . . . . . . . 70 105. () . ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()71 106. 72 107. () . , ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()73 108. , - . - - () - 74 109. - () . - . 75 110. () . . . . . . . .76 111. () . ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()77 112. () . . . . . .78 113. () ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()79 114. 80 115. 81 116. UNOFFICIAL TRANSLATIONRoyal Speech(1) by Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn on the Occasion of the Presentation Ceremony of the Prince Mahidol Awards for the Year 2005 at the Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall on Thursday, 26th January, B.E. 2549 (A.D. 2006)May it please Your Majesty, On behalf of the Board of Trustees of the Prince Mahidol Award Foundation under Royal Patronage as well as the Privy Council, the Cabinet, the Diplomatic Corps and distinguished guests who are present in this Throne Hall, I am deeply grateful to Your Majesty for your gracious presence in presiding over the Presentation Ceremony of the Prince Mahidol Awards for the year 2005, which is the 14th year. During the past year, the Board of Trustees considered and selected candidates whose researches are beneficial to the public at large for the Prince Mahidol Awards in accordance with the established rules and regulations. It was decided that Emeritus Professor Eugene Goldwasser from the United States of America should receive the Award in the field of medicine, while Emeritus Professor Doctor Harald zur Hausen from the Federal Republic of Germany should receive the Award in the field of public health. May I now seek Your Majestys Permission to read the citations and call upon the two Awardees into audience in order to receive the Prince Mahidol Awards for the year 2005 in the following order :________________________________________________________________________________________ (1)82 117. In the Field of Medicine Emeritus Professor Eugene Goldwasser received his bachelors degree in biological sciences and his doctorate in biochemistry from the University of Chicago, the United States of America. He is presently Emeritus Professor at the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, the University of Chicago, the United States of America. Emeritus Professor Eugene Goldwasser had studied the hemopoietic growth factor since 1950. He believed in the existence of this hormone in the plasma and demonstrated that kidney was the site of its production. He developed the first quantitative bioassay for this hormone and used it to purify and characterize erythropoietin (EPO) from the plasma of anemic sheep in 1971 and subsequently of human hormone from the urine of patients with aplastic anemia in 1977. This information enabled workers to clone the human EPO gene, leading to the development of biotechnology method for the production of the recombinant hormone to be used in the therapy of millions of patients with kidney failure and other anemias such as those associated with cancer. The work of Emeritus Professor Eugene Goldwasser is beneficial to the health and quality of life of patients suffering from anemia all over the world. The Board therefore deemed that Emeritus Professor Eugene Goldwassser should receive the Prince Mahidol Award for the year 2005 in the field of Medicine. Emeritus Professor Eugene Goldwasser In the field of Public Health Emeritus Professor Doctor Harald zur Hausen received his M.D. from the University of Dsseldorf, the Federal Republic of Germany. He is presently Emeritus Professor at the Cancer Research Center in Heidelberg, the Federal Republic of Germany. Emeritus Professor Doctor Harald zur Hausen played a vital role in the research on cervical cancer which is one of the major causes of death in women around the world. Emeritus Professor Doctor Harald zur Hausen had focused on human papillomaviruses (HPU) which cause skin wart since 1970. In 1976, he published the hypothesis that wart viruses played a role in the development of cervical cancer. This was proven scientifically in 1980 as Emeritus Professor Doctor Harald zur Hausen and his co-workers were able to isolate two previously unknown virus types, HPV 16 and HPV 18, from the tumor tissue.83 118. The work of Emeritus Professor Doctor Harald zur Hausen has a major impact on the understanding of the cause of cervical cancer, leading to the improvement and treatment of cervical cancer and the development of vaccines against high-risk HPV which in the near future may eradicate cervical cancer and relieve suffering from this disease among women all over the world. The work of Emeritus Professor Doctor Harald zur Hausen should receive the Prince Mahidol Award for the year 2005 in the field of Public Health. Emeritus Professor Doctor Harald zur Hausen May it please Your Majesty84 119. .. . . . . Eugene Goldwasser Harald zur Hausen . . 85 120. UNOFFICIAL TRANSLATIONRoyal Address of His Majesty the King on the Occasion of the Presentation Ceremony of the Prince Mahidol Awards for the Year 2005 at the Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall on Thursday, 26th January, B.E. 2549 (A.D. 2006)I am pleased to present the Prince Mahidol Awards for the year 2005 today. I would like to thank the Board of Trustees and everyone concerned for all the work you have successfully carried out to honour His Royal Highness Prince Mahidol of Songkla. It is well known that study and research in medical sciences is not easy to achieve as it is a time-consuming task and requires great perseverance. Moreover, the results of such achievement are not meant for any individual but for the benefit of all mankind and all countries of the world. For this reason, those who persevere to carry out research and finally achieve success must have complete proficiency, unwavering determination and great compassion for their fellow human beings. I therefore extend my sincere congratulations to Emeritus Professor Eugene Goldwasser and Emeritus Professor Doctor Harald zur Hausen who are recipients of the Prince Mahidol Awards for the year 2005. I wish to say to each of you that your good deeds are excellent examples to inspire others to be willing to sacrifice themselves both physically and mentally as well as their private well-being to the promotion of welfare and progress of all mankind. May you be blessed with physical and mental health, strong and wholesome intellectual capability so as to be able to contribute further to the well-being of people the world over. I also wish each and everyone of you who are gathered here for this Ceremony happiness and progress always.86 121. () ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()87 122. () ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()88 123. / 89 124. / 90 125. () ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()91 126. / 92 127. () ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()93 128. . () . 94 129. / 95 130. () . . . . .. .. .. .. . . (CIDE) . . .. (Global Education Center) . . .. .. .. . ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()96 131. .. .. (National Council for the Social Studies: NCSS-USA) . . The Citizenship Policy Study (CEPS) .. - The Six Society Pacific Rim Civic Education Study (PACRIM) .. - The Citizenship Education Policy Study II .. - (Multidimensional Citizenship) The Schooling for the Future - - . . . . 97 132. . . . . .. . . . . . . / 98 133. () ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()99 134. 100 135. e-Media Hochschule Der Media , , , , . . . . 101 136. . . . . / . . 102 137. 103 138. () . . . . . . .104 139. () , , ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()105 140. 106 141. () . . . . .107 142. () , , ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()108 143. 109 144. () . . . . . .110 145. () , , ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()111 146. 112 147. () . . . . . . .113 148. () , , , ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()114 149. 115 150. () . . . . .116 151. () , , ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()117 152. 118 153. () . . . . .119 154. () () . . . . . . . . . . . ________________________________________________________________________________________ () () 120 155. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121 156. . .122 157. () - ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()123 158. Shrewsbury School Kings College Edgewood College Malay College - 124 159. 125 160. . . . . .126 161. () .. ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()127 162. 128 163. , 129 164. () . . . . .130 165. () .. ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()131 166. - 132 167. 133 168. , 134 169. () .. ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()135 170. . 136 171. . , 137 172. () . . . . . .138 173. . . . . . .139 174. UNOFFICIAL TRANSLATIONHis Majestys Address of Welcome on the Occasion of the State Banquet Given in Honour of His Excellency Mr. Jacques Chirac President of the French Republic and Madame Bernadette Chirac at the Chakri Throne Hall on Friday, the 17th of February, B.E. 2549 (2006)Mr. President, The Queen and I are most pleased to have the opportunity of welcoming Your Excellency and Madame Chirac together with your party this evening. We hope that you will have a pleasant and enjoyable stay throughout the time you are spending in our country. France and Thailand have long had relations, since the time Ayutthaya was the capital city of the Thai. Since then, our countries and peoples have always been in contact and have exchanged visits throughout, resulting in the close relationship and cooperation of the present time, and both sides have much benefited from their cooperation in various fields of endeavour. Your Excellencys visit is therefore most significant, because not only is the State Visit by the President of the French Republic to Thailand an important historical event in the relations between our two countries, it will also result in promoting the relationship including the cooperation between each other to be even more secure and fruitful for a long time to come without end. On this occasion, I would like to invite all distinguished guests to join me in a toast to the happiness of His Excellency the President and Madame Chirac, to the prosperity of the French Republic and to the everlasting friendship between our two countries and peoples.140 175. SPEECH(1) by Jacques Chirac President of the French Republic on the Occasion of the State Dinner Hosted in His Honour by Their Majesties King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit of Thailand Bangkok - Thailand on Friday, the 17th of February, 2006Sire, Madame, Your warm welcome bears witness to your personal attachment to France, its culture, and its language. My wife and I express our utmost gratitude to you. Ever since the outset of diplomatic relations between Asia and Europe, France has looked on Your Kingdom as a friend. The memory of the prestigious visit by King Phra NARAIs Ambassadors, who so impressed King LOUIS XIV and the Court of Versailles, is imprinted in French history. A hundred and fifty years ago, our two countries signed the friendship treaty initiated by Your great-grandfather King RAMA IV and NAPOLEON III. Your illustrious grandfather King Chulalongkorn, Rama V, twice honoured France with his visits. In 2004, UNESCO very aptly paid tribute to this great statesman and modernizer who succeeded in preserving his countrys independence and in cultivating its friendship with France despite the threats of European colonial expansion. It is by virtue of this long-standing friendship that Siam joined in the First World War alongside the Allies. Our leaders have been friends and Allies since they trained at the Ecole de Guerre, the Defence College, which the future King RAMA VII attended with Charles de GAULLE. Our defence relationship today naturally stems from out relationship that goes back centuries.________________________________________________________________________________________ (1)141 176. Sire, Since your State Visit to France at the invitation of Charles de GAULLE almost fifty years ago, the French have often had the pleasure of welcoming members of the Royal Family, in particular Her Majesty the Queen who seeks to promote the splendour and traditions of the Thai Kingdom throughout the world. I am pleased about this first State Visit by a French President to Your Kingdom. In returning to Thailand today at Your invitation, I hope that our meeting will herald a new era of cooperation, friendship and solidarity. This solidarity was so strongly expressed when the tsunami cruelly hit the Thai people and plunged the Royal Family into mourning. Sire, Our two countries have many facets in common: the same attachment to their independence, their identity, their heritage and traditions, the same liking for art de vivre that reflects a vision of mankind and civilization, and the same determination to make the best of globalization while respecting what we stand for. A country with an ancient and brilliant culture that gave the world some of the most beautiful forms of Buddhist statuary, Your Kingdom found itself side by side with France to defend and promote cultural diversity, and to promote the fundamental principles for a harmonious international community, namely democracy and human rights. We are working together in seeking to enhance dialogue between continents and cultures, particularly within ASEM. To encourage an ever closer dialogue between ASEAN and the European Union, France wished to announce its decision to ratify the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia in Bangkok, where ASEAN was formed. Francophony has powerful relays in this country with the Alliances franaises and their networks of former students. It is also privileged to enjoy the support of members of the Royal Family, in particular that of the King and Queen themselves to whom I extend my most sincere thanks. By welcoming more than 180 Thai Government scholars in 2005, France became Thailands leading academic partner. La Fte, a yearly event since 2003, and the Thai Festival to take place in France in September and October of this year, bear witness to the strength and dynamism of our cultural and art exchanges. Our economic and trade relations are also likely to experience further success. As a follow-up to the action plan we launched with the Thai Prime Minister, we are holding a bilateral Economic Summit tomorrow. Both our business communities will take part in it with a view to working together in key sectors. We are initiating this closer142 177. relationship with a view to achieving the sufficient economy you find so important and reconciling raising the standard of living with preserving the environment. Sire, In this new era of prosperity and harmony that is opening up for Franco-Thai relations, our two countries know they can rely on Your immense wisdom. This year when the Kingdom is celebrating the 60th anniversary of Your reign, I wish to pay You the most respectful and friendly homage, on my part, on that of my wife and on that of the French people. I raise my glass in Your honour, Sire, in honour of your great reign and to Your health. I raise it in honour of Queen SIRIKIT to whom I present my very respectful homage. I raise my glass to long-lasting friendship, full of promise for the future, between Thailand and France. Long live Thailand! Long live France! Long live our friendship!143 178. () .. ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()144 179. - 145 180. , , 146 181. () . . . . .147 182. () .. ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()148 183. , , 149 184. () . . . . .150 185. () .. ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()151 186. 152 187. - 153 188. , , 154 189. () . . . .155 190. () .. ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()156 191. , , 157 192. () .. ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()158 193. 159 194. () . . . . . .160 195. () .. ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()161 196. , 162 197. () . . . . . .163 198. () .. ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()164 199. .. .. , 165 200. , 166 201. () .. ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()167 202. 168 203. () . . . . .169 204. . . . . . .170 205. UNOFFICIAL TRANSLATIONHis Majestys Address of Welcome on the Occasion of the State Banquet Given in Honour of His Majesty King Juan Carlos I of Spain and Her Majesty Queen Sofia at the Chakri Throne Hall on Wednesday, the 22nd of February, B.E. 2549 (2006)Your Majesty, The Queen and I are most pleased and highly honoured to have the opportunity of welcoming Your Majesty and Her Majesty Queen Sofia in the Thai capital this evening. We hope that you will be happy throughout your stay in our country. When we speak of the relationship between our countries, it can be said that Spain and Thailand have long had good relations, and our two Royal Families have enjoyed close ties as intimate friends and relatives, with each side coming and going visiting one another continuously. The fact that Your Majesty and Her Majesty Queen Sofia have twice paid State Visits to Thailand bears witness indeed to the secure solid relationship between our two countries and Royal Families. I, therefore, together with the Government and the Thai people, deem the present State Visit to Thailand of Your Majesty and Her Majesty Queen Sofia as a truly auspicious omen of glorious relations, which will help to promote the friendship and cooperation between our countries and peoples to continue to grow even more fruitful and closer in the years to come. On this occasion, I would like to invite everyone to join me in a toast to the health and happiness of His Majesty King Juan Carlos I of Spain and Her Majesty Queen Sofia, as well as to the everlasting well-being of Spain and your people.171 206. Speech(1) by His Majesty the King of Spain on Occasion of the Gala Dinner Offered By Their Majesties The King & Queen of Thailand Bangkok, 22nd February, 2006Your Majesty, The Queen joins me in expressing our most heartfelt gratitude for your very kind words, and for the wonderfully generous reception that Your Majesty has given us, together with Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, at the beginning of this, our second State Visit to the Kingdom of Thailand. We are especially pleased that this visit coincides with the Sixtieth Anniversary of Your Majestys reign, since it gives us the opportunity to personally convey our most sincere congratulations and affection. The figure of Your Majesty, who has, since the age of twenty, stood at the helm of Thailands destiny, constitutes a reference of constant dedication and devotion to the development and wellbeing of the Thai people, promoting harmony and solidarity. Our bilateral relationship has deep roots that go back hundreds of years, beginning with the arrival of the first Spaniards to these lands in the sixteenth century, and the sending of the first ambassador in 1718 by my ancestor, King Philip V. Our close ties meant that by 1897, Spain had seen its first official visit from a Thai monarch. We are now experiencing a high point in the development of our bilateral relationship, which offers us a wide range of new prospects and opportunities. Within the framework of my governments recent Asia-Pacific Plan, our bilateral co-operation enjoys privileged status, and we should try to take advantage of its enormous potential in order to put it on the level that it so richly deserves, and which we all desire.________________________________________________________________________________________ (1)172 207. I am thinking particularly of the need to promote our trade relations, which will be the subject of the Business Forum to be inaugurated tomorrow. I am also thinking about our cultural ties, which offer such promising possibilities. The presentation this very afternoon of the first edition in the Thai language of that masterpiece of Spanish literature, Don Quixote of La Mancha, has highlighted their importance. Another key example of the potential of Hispano-Thai friendship can be seen in the sphere of security and defence. Our Naval Forces have a longstanding traditional relationship, as underscored by the fact that the flagship of the Royal Thai Navy, the aircraft carrier HTMS Chakri Naruebet, was built in Spain and christened jointly ten years ago by Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, who on that occasion honoured us with a very pleasant visit, and by Queen Sofia. Your Majesty, We recall with deep sadness the terrible tragedy, a little over a year ago, of the tsunami that overwhelmed the coasts of various countries in this region, causing enormous destruction and the loss of thousands of lives in Thailand, including those of Spanish citizens. Once again, we would like to express our sympathy and solidarity in the face of such a dramatic catastrophe, as well as our admiration and recognition of the human grandeur, and the capacity for recovery and reconstruction, shown by Your Majestys people. We share the pride of being old nations with rich cultures, whilst also being young, dynamic peoples committed to building a better future, by overcoming the great challenges that we face in our world today: especially, those derived from threats to peace and security, the scourge of terrorism, the violation of human rights, poverty, and pandemics. Today, we once again enjoy Your Majestys hospitality, and can see for ourselves the accuracy of a chronicle written nearly three centuries ago by the first Spanish Ambassador to these lands, Don Gregorio de Bustamante, when he said that the Siamese people have a very hospitable nature. In this spirit, allow me, Your Majesty, to raise my glass in a toast to Your Majestys personal happiness, that of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit and the entire Thai Royal Family; to the peace, prosperity and wellbeing of this beloved Thai nation; and to the deepening friendship and co-operation between Thailand and Spain.173 208. () - ( ) - ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()174 209. () - ( ) , , ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()175 210. , , , 176 211. 177 212. 178 213. 179 214. 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() . ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()201 236. . 202 237. () ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()203 238. , 204 239. 205 240. . . . . . . . . 206 241. () .. ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()207 242. , , 208 243. () . . . . .209 244. () .. ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()210 245. , , 211 246. () . . . . .212 247. () .. ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()213 248. , , 214 249. () . . . . . .215 250. () .. ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()216 251. , , 217 252. () .. ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()218 253. , , 219 254. () . . . . . .220 255. SPEECH(1) by His Excellency Mr. Vasil Pytel Ambassador of the Republic of Slovak at the presentation of his credentials to His Majesty the King of Thailand on 7th March, 2006Your Majesty, I have the great honour to present to Your Majesty the Letters by which the President of the Slovak Republic has accredited me as the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Kingdom of Thailand. On this happy occasion I have the privilege to convey to Your Majesty cordial greetings and best wishes for Your personal good health and happiness, for the increasing progress and prosperity of the friendly Thai people from the President of the Slovak Republic H.E. Ivan Gasparovic . Your Majesty, We are delighted to see the further development of the Slovak Thai relations since the establishment of the Slovak Republic. We greatly value our relations with the Kingdom of Thailand. We regard Thailand as a trusted friend and as reliable partner with which we would like to develop political dialog, economic cooperation, cultural and intellectual interaction. We share similar views on important international issues and with to see our bilateral cooperation grow and intensify in a multi-faceted manner.________________________________________________________________________________________ (1)221 256. As an independent State, Slovakia came into being twelve years ago, which is very short time from the perspective of global history. Nevertheless, the Slovak nation has been an integral part of the European community for of many centuries. Nowadays, Slovakia is a sovereign State, which has overcome its teething pains, has grown to full mature and has proudly embarked on the path towards a stable democracy and overall development of its society. The Slovak Republic therefore attach great importance to the cultivation of closer relations with Kingdom of Thailand, the country that has for centuries been the bastion of defense for liberty and independence and which is today the bearer of understanding and cooperation between the South East Asia and European. Slovakia is ready to continue the cooperation with the Kingdom of Thailand in all areas of mutual interest and as new EU Member State. We will participate in the active dialogue between the Kingdom of Thailand and European Union. The people of Slovakia are fascinated by rich history and cultural heritage of Thailand. Tourism on the both sides and increased mutual visits have made an important contribution to the common understanding between our two countries. We highly appreciate the outstanding contribution made by Your Majesty and members of the Royal Family to the friendship between our two countries. Historical visit of Her Royal Highness Princes Sirindhorn to Slovakia in 1996 has contributed in substantial measure to this process. On the other side visits of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Slovak Republic have brought relations between our two countries much closer in many fields of mutual interest. Recent visit of H.E. Eduard Kukan to Thailand brought new impulses for development of commercial relations between businessmen and companies of both our countries. May I also take this opportunity to express my confidence that our strong ties of friendship and cooperation in both the bilateral and multilateral areas will continue to be further strengthened in years ahead. We greatly value our relations with Your country, which we regard as trusted friend and as reliable partner with who we would like to develop political dialog, economic cooperation, cultural interaction and relationship in every sphere.222 257. Your Majesty, As the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Slovak Republic to the Kingdom of Thailand I shall endeavor to offer my fullest cooperation to Your Majestys Government in order to strengthen our relations in all fields of cooperation for the mutual benefit of both countries. I would like to assure Your Majesty, that Ill do my utmost to fulfill my mission. In doing so, I am confident that Ill receive the cooperation of Your Majestys Government and the goodwill of the people of the Kingdom of Thailand. Finally, Your Majesty, allow me to add my personal best wishes to Your Majesty and the Royal Family, the Government and the people of the Kingdom of Thailand. Thank You, Your Majesty223 258. () . . . . . ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()Mr. Vasil Pytel224 259. UNOFFICIAL TRANSLATIONREPLY OF HIS MAJESTY THE KING Excellency, I am pleased to receive from His Excellency the President of the Republic of Slovak the Letters of Credence accrediting you as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Slovak to Thailand as well as the Letters of Recall of your predecessor. I wish to express to His Excellency the President My sincere thanks for the kind sentiments extended to Me and the Thai people. I would also like to extend, in return, My best wishes for the personal happiness of His Excellency the President as well as for the prosperity of the Republic of Slovak and her people. I note with appreciation your reference to the friendly relations and close co-operation between Thailand and the Republic of Slovak as well as your intention to strengthen such relations and co-operation. I am confident that, with mutual amity and goodwill, our co-operation in various fields of endeavour will not only promote the existing relationship but will also contribute to friendship and understanding among various nations of the world. In the discharge of your official duties, you may rest assured that you will receive My full support and that the Thai authorities will accord you all possible facilities and assistance for the fulfilment of your mission.225 260. SPEECH(1) by His Excellency Mr. Yaichil Batsuuri Ambassador of Mongolia at the presentation of his credentials to His Majesty the King of Thailand on 7th March, 2006Your Majesty, I have the great honour to present to Your Majesty my Letters of Credence whereby His Excellency Mr. Nambaryn Enkhbayar, President of Mongolia appointed me as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Mongolia to reside near Your Majestys Court. I take this pleasant opportunity to convey to Your Majesty and Her Majesty Queen Sirikit warm greetings from His Excellency Mr. Nambaryn Enkhbayar, President of Mongolia and his spouse Her Excellency Mrs. Onongiin Tsolmon. It is my particular pleasure to emphasize that the bilateral ties between our two nations have been developing well ever since the two countries established formal diplomatic relations in 1974. Our political relations are good and in this respect, I would like to stress the importance of the visit by Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn to Mongolia in 1992, as well as the visits by His Excellency Mr. Punsalmaagiin Ochirbat, President of Mongolia and His Excellency Mr. Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj, Prime Minister of Mongolia to your beautiful country, paid respectively in 1994 and 2005. These visits greatly contributed to the development of Mongolia-Thailand relations and to the mutual understanding of our two peoples.________________________________________________________________________________________ (1)226 261. The Government and people of Mongolia are grateful to Your Majesty and to the Royal Thai Government for the technical assistance rendered through the economic cooperation program for human resources development of Mongolia. In the years ahead, we would like to see marked increase in the economic cooperation between our two countries. We believe that there are promising potentials for development and cooperation in the fields of trade, economy, tourism and people-to-people exchanges. Your Majesty, Mongolia, as an Asian nation, strives to take an active part in the political and economic integration processes taking place in the Asia Pacific region and my Government attaches great importance to the development of friendly relations and mutually beneficial cooperation with the Kingdom of Thailand on a long- term basis. As both Mongolia and Thailand are Buddhist nations, cultural similarities and common Asian values would bring our two peoples closer. Moreover, we have shared values of democracy, freedom and respect of human rights. Your Majesty may rest assured that I, in my capacity as Ambassador of Mongolia, will do my utmost to contribute to the friendly and warm relations so happily existing between our two nations. Please accept my very best wishes to Your Majesty and Her Majesty Queen Sirikit as well as other members of the Royal family for good health, happiness and continued prosperity to the friendly people of Thailand.Bangkok, 2005227 262. () . . . . . . .________________________________________________________________________________________ ()Mr. Yaichil Batsuuri228 263. .229 264. UNOFFICIAL TRANSLATIONREPLY OF HIS MAJESTY THE KING Excellency, I am pleased to receive from His Excellency the President of Mongolia the Letters of Credence accrediting you as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Mongolia to Thailand as well as the Letters of Recall of your predecessor. I wish to express to His Excellency the President and Madam My sincere thanks for the kind sentiments extended to Me and the Queen. I would also like to extend, in return, My best wishes for the personal happiness of His Excellency the President and Madam as well as for the prosperity of Mongolia and her people. I note with appreciation your reference to the friendly relations and close co-operation in various fields of endeavour between Thailand and Mongolia. Such cordial relations and co-operation are bound to increase because our two countries always assist and support each other in an amicable manner. In addition, important personalities from both countries frequently exchange visits and knowledge in various fields. I am confident that our co-operation on such basis, with mutual amity and goodwill, will not only strengthen further the existing relations, but will also contribute to understanding, prosperity and lasting peace among various countries of the world. In the discharge of your official duties, you may rest assured that you will receive My full support and that the Thai authorities will accord you all possible facilities and assistance for the fulfilment of your mission.230 265. SPEECH(1) by His Excellency Mrs. Yael Rubinstein Ambassador of the State of Israel at the presentation of his credentials to His Majesty the King of Thailand on 7th March, 2006May It Please Your Majesty, I have been given the honour to humbly present to Your Majesty the Letters of Credence, which the President of the State of Israel, Mr. Moshe Katzav, has addressed to Your Majesty accrediting me as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Kingdom of Thailand. While having the distinguished honour of bringing to Your Majesty greetings from the Holy City of Jerusalem and the People of Israel, may I be allowed to underline that these are troubling and difficult days for the inhabitants of our ancient land. The special relations that link Israel and the Kingdom of Thailand are well rooted in strong bonds of friendship and cooperation, consolidated over time by the people-to-people bridge of our two societies. Israel facing modern social and economic realities as a reborn, sovereign nation, has always perceived the Kingdom of Thailand as a partner in striving to alleviate such shared global problems as drought, poverty and inadequate rural development. Our mutual concern for advancement in areas as reforestation, irrigation techniques and fish farming found expression in tradition of many years of________________________________________________________________________________________ (1)231 266. cooperation. Your Majestys leadership in agricultural progress materialized in well known Thai-Israel Rural Development Project in Hup Kapong in Petchaburi province, which showed the way in communal work and marketing. It is commendable that wide range of agricultural ties, as inspired by this historical project, includes also current bilateral agreement involving Khon Kaen University and Israeli expertise in innovative irrigation techniques. It is my sincerest desire that during my tenure as Ambassador, the close ties that distinguish the bonds between our countries, in wide ranging fields of common interest, will be deepened and further enhanced. In this context the activity of bilateral friendship leagues and Chambers of Commerce in both countries is a worthy contribution. I trust that increasing interest that Thailand attracts among many Israeli visitors, and growing number of Thai participants in professional enrichment courses in areas of public health, economic development and environment in Israel are obvious proof that geographical distance is not an obstacle in bringing our people together. Allow me to inform Your Majesty that apart from government-to-government several projects and cooperation in various fields, thousands and thousands of young Israelis traveling to Thailand every year not only for pleasure or tourist approach but also to enjoy culture and spiritual treasures of Thailand. Indeed, they wish to learn and come closer to the way of life of the Thai people who always welcome them and render them friendship. Regarding the Disengagement Plan, it is my pleasure to inform Your Majesty that the pull out of Israels military and civilians commenced weeks ago as Israel intends to move out totally from the Gaza Strip. This is the sign of the commitment of the Jewish people against the occupation and it is the sincere hope for a peaceful coexistence between the Jewish People and the Palestinians and, of course, a desire for eternal peace. On this auspicious occasion, may I humbly convey my heartfelt good wishes for Your Majestys personal well-being, for the happiness of the Royal Family and for the continued prosperity of the friendly people of Thailand.232 267. () . . . . . ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()Mrs. Yael Rubinstein233 268. UNOFFICIAL TRANSLATIONREPLY OF HIS MAJESTY THE KING Excellency, I am pleased to receive from His Excellency the President of the State of Israel the Letters of Credence accrediting you as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the State of Israel to Thailand as well as the Letters of Recall of your predecessor. I wish to express to His Excellency the President My sincere thanks for the kind sentiments extended to Me, the Royal Family and the Thai people. I would also like to extend, in return, My best wishes for the happiness of His Excellency the President as well as for the prosperity of the State of Israel and her people. I note with appreciation your reference to the friendly relations and co-operation in various fields of endeavour between Thailand and the State of Israel as well as your intention to strengthen them yet further. I am confident that our co-operation, with cordial friendship and sincere goodwill, will not only promote the existing relationship but will also contribute to solidarity and international understanding, which will be beneficial for lasting peace and harmony in the world. In the discharge of your official duties, you may rest assured that you will receive My full support and that the Thai authorities will accord you all possible facilities and assistance for the fulfilment of your mission.234 269. SPEECH(1) by His Excellency Mr. Pierre Dossou Ago Ambassador of the Republic of Benin at the presentation of his credentials to His Majesty the King of Thailand on 7th March, 2006Majesty, Allow me first of all, on this solemn occasion and on behalf of the entire people of Benin, its Government and Head of State to reiterate loudly to your Majesty, to your royal family and to all the people of Thailand in all its social composition my condolences for the Tsunami natural catastrophy that hit the country last year. Secondly, I would like to avail myself of this opportunity to express to your Majesty in the same time my deep gratitude and emotion that I feel today by handing to you at the same time the recalling letters of my predecessor, and letters from the head of state of the Republic of Benin, general Mathieu KEREKOU accreding me to your Majesty as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Benin to the Kingdom of Thailand with residence in Beijing. It is a modest link that happily reinforce the friendly relations and cooperation between the Republic of Benin and the Kingdom of Thailand that exist since 1991 when our two countries established diplomatic relations. Henceforth, I take in charge this heavy and exalting job to contribute to its harmonious development.________________________________________________________________________________________ (1)235 270. But, in spite of the fact that this mission is heavy, I stay convinced and confident that your Majesty will assist. Majesty, there is a big geographic distance between our two countries, but the people of Benin and Thailand didnt wait for the globalisation era to get closer. Benin, a country from Guinea Gulf is in located in West Africa with its rich ancestral traditions that was about to disappear due to colonial background. That country which is mine is well known by its royalties and namely Abomey with the King Behanzin, struggled on its freedom from French colonial power and got its independence on 1st August 1960. But the first thirty years of its recent history was openly full of political instability. But since 1990, many reforms in political, social and economic levels in multipartism system allow the population and the differents governments to recover political stability, peace and progress in many fields, namely the growth rate which is 4%. The economic system of the country is a free market system. Majesty, The contemporary Benin and Thailand are nearly the same if we look at what experiences of the Kingdom of Thailand went through since 1932. But it is not because of the recent historic facts that Thailand is famous in the whole world. Rather, Thailand, your Kingdom is famous for its peoples know how in all aspects including commercial, economical, industrial and services sector. Nowadays, Thailand belongs to the new club of industrialized countries with its economic sector inexorably growing very fast since 25 years. This is due to investments and growing of exporting companies. Also, my country, the Republic of Benin, although it is located too far from the Kingdom of Thailand would like to learn from the great people of Thailands experiences in different fields, namely : agriculture, economic, commercial, scientific and industrial. During my term together with the honourable Consul of Benin in Bangkok, Mr AMARIN KHOMAN and the Thai relevant Authorities I will make sure our two states remain closer, and encourage and support business people from our two respective countries to meet.236 271. Also in the framework of developing south-south relationship, I wil work hard in order to permit to our leaders, on both sides to visit each other on cultural, political and economic levels, organizing or contributing to organize fairs and seminars. Majesty, I will spare no time so that the friendly relationship and cooperation between Thailand and Benin develop and become stronger and I wish for that the big support of your Majesty and the friendly assistance of Thai populations. On behalf of the president of the Republic of Benin, General Mathieu KEREKOU, I present my best wishes of health to you, to your spouse and royal family. To the people of Thailand and its government I present my best wishes of success and prosperity. Long live Benin ! Long live Thailand ! Thanks.237 272. () . . . . . . . ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()Mr. Pierre Dossou Ago238 273. UNOFFICIAL TRANSLATIONREPLY OF HIS MAJESTY THE KING Excellency, I am pleased to receive from His Excellency the President of the Republic of Benin the Letters of Credence accrediting you as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Benin to Thailand as well as the Letters of Recall of your predecessor. I wish to express to His Excellency the President My sincere thanks for the kind sentiments extended to Me, the Queen and the Royal Family as well as the Government and the Thai people. I would also like to extend, in return, My best wishes for the personal happiness of His Excellency the President as well as for the prosperity of the Republic of Benin and her people. Although situated far away from each other, Thailand and the Republic of Benin have enjoyed friendly relations which are increasing each day. This is because our two countries have always enjoyed mutual goodwill and understanding. I note with appreciation your endeavour to further promote and strengthen such relations and co-operation. I am confident that the co-operation of both countries with mutual amity and goodwill will promote the existing relations as well as contribute to stability and lasting peace among various countries of the world. In the discharge of your official duties, you may rest assured that you will receive My full support and that the Thai authorities will accord you all possible facilities and assistance for the fulfilment of your mission.239 274. SPEECH(1) by His Excellency Major General Tara Bahadur Thapa Ambassador of the Kingdom of Nepal at the presentation of his credentials to His Majesty the King of Thailand on 7th March, 2006May it please your Majesty, Your Majesty, I am privileged and honoured to present to Your Majesty, the Letter of Credence by which His Majesty the King of Nepal has accredited me as Ambassador of the Kingdom of Nepal to the Kingdom of Thailand. On this auspicious occasion, I have the honour to convey to Your Majesty, warm greetings and best wishes from my August Sovereign for Your Majestys personal good health and happiness and for the continued prosperity of the government and people of the Kingdom of Thailand. I am happy to note that the establishment of diplomatic relations between Nepal and Thailand is approaching fifty years whereas our cultural and religious affinity has been established to date back to the golden age of Lord Buddha. Furthermore, Your Majestys book Maha Janaka elucidates that this contact is even more extensive and ancient extending to the glorious days of King Janaka and his daughter Sita. Thus, Lumbini and Janakpur both being the sanctora sanctum of Buddhism and Hinduism and located in the lush green plains of Nepal, I am proud to note that the relationship between Nepal and Thailand have been moulded and________________________________________________________________________________________ (1)240 275. matured by timeless values of compassion and non-violence. Similarly, Nepali and Thai people are conscious that national unity, under the benevolent and wise leadership of Monarchy, is the only guarantee for democracy, peace and prosperity. Nepal is also inspired by achievements made by Thailand in the fields of agriculture, industry and technology and has benefited in the sectors of tourism, aviation and related service industry. Moreover, Thailand is our fourth largest trading partner. I would like to contribute in strengthening this trade regime for the benefit of both our economies. During my tenure as Ambassador, I would like to see that these areas of cooperation are further consolidated for our mutual benefit. Exchanges of high level visits between the two Kingdoms have contributed significantly in identifying new avenues of closer cooperation and consolidating our existing friendly relations. I am committed to do my utmost to further consolidate such interactions. Nepal and Thailand work closely in many international fora including the United Nations. Nepal has recently been the member of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multisectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation and appreciates the role played by the Kingdom of Thailand in nurturing, energizing and diversifying this regional organization to better the lives of 1.3 billion people living in this geographical region. In conclusion, my appointment as Royal Nepalese Ambassador to the Kingdom of Thailand is an indication of my countrys desire for closer and purposeful relationship with the Kingdom of Thailand for the common benefit of both our people. There are opportunities for us to work together in the field of economic cooperation as well as in the promotion of international peace and security through the curbing of terrorism. I will also do my utmost in preserving as well as promoting socio-cultural values that are so dear to both our people. I am confident that I shall receive the blessings of Your Majesty and the full cooperation of the Government and the people of the Kingdom of Thailand while performing my duties here as Ambassador to your Majestys Royal court. Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to submit my humble greetings and best wishes to Your Majesty and respected members of The Royal Family as well as the Government and the people of the Kingdom of Thailand. It is great honour for me Your Majesty, to be Your Majestys Servant, Thank You.241 276. () . . . . . ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()Major General Tara Bahadur Thapa242 277. .243 278. UNOFFICIAL TRANSLATIONREPLY OF HIS MAJESTY THE KING Excellency, I am pleased to receive from His Majesty the King of Nepal the Letters of Credence accrediting you as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kingdom of Nepal to Thailand as well as the Letters of Recall of your predecessor. I wish to express to His Majesty the King My sincere thanks for the kind sentiments extended to Me, the Government and the Thai people. I would also like to extend, in return, My best wishes for the personal happiness of His Majesty the King as well as for the continued prosperity of the Kingdom of Nepal and His people. I note with appreciation your reference to the friendly relations between Thailand and the Kingdom of Nepal together with your intention to promote and strengthen them yet further. Such friendship is increasing each day because our two countries have strong religious and cultural affinity. In addition, we always assist and support each other in various fields of endeavour at both the bilateral and sub-regional levels. I am confident that co-operation between our two countries on the basis of goodwill and shared ideals will not only help to maintain and promote the existing friendly relations but will also lead to solidarity and understanding among various countries which will contribute to lasting peace in the world. In the discharge of your official duties, you may rest assured that you will receive My full support and that the Thai authorities will accord you all possible facilities and assistance for the fulfilment of your mission.244 279. () .. ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()245 280. 246 281. , , 247 282. () . . . . .248 283. () .. ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()249 284. , , 250 285. () . . . . .251 286. () .. ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()252 287. , 253 288. , 254 289. () . . . .255 290. () .. ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()256 291. , , 257 292. () . . . . .258 293. SPEECH(1) by His Excellency Mr. Peter Chan Jer Hing Ambassador of the Republic of Singapore at the presentation of his credentials to His Majesty the King of Thailand on 9th March, 2006Your Majesty I am deeply honoured and privileged to be received in Royal Audience by Your Majesty this afternoon. I am here to present the Letter of Credence from the President of the Republic of Singapore accrediting me as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Singapore to the Royal Court of Thailand and to submit the Letter of Recall of my predecessor, Ambassador Chan Heng Wing. I also have the privilege to convey the warmest personal greetings from President S R Nathan to Your Majesty. President Nathan remembers fondly his visit in January 2005, which was the first ever State Visit by a Singaporean President to Thailand. I bring the Presidents best wishes for Your Majestys good health and heartfelt felicitations for the 60th anniversary of Your Majestys accession to the throne in 2006. The peope of Singapore also wish the people of the Kingdom of Thailand continued prosperity and progress. 2005 is a milestone in Thai-Singapore relations. It celebrates 40 years of warm and enduring diplomatic ties between two countries whose links date back to when Singapore was founded in 1819. Boats from Siam visited Singapore from the________________________________________________________________________________________ (1)259 294. first year of Singapores founding and trade flourished rapidly. Envoys from Siam to the courts of Europe travelled through Singapore because that was the route of the steamships. In 1871, His Majesty King Rama V made his first overseas visit as King, to Singapore and Java. Royal visits have continued since then, with both Your Majesties also visiting Singapore in 1950, 1951 and 1962. The relationship between our two countries have intensified and expanded far beyond what could have been imagined in the 19th century. Political ties at the highest level between Singapore and Thailand remain very strong with visits by both sides. The successful conclusion of the 7th Civil Service Exchange Programme Coordinating Meeting in August 2005 bears testimony to the depth, scope and potential for closer cooperation between our two governments. Singapore and Thailand share a like-minded approach to many issues in regional and international fora such as ASEAN, ASEM, APEC and the UN. Our economic relations are robust. Bilateral trade in 2004 was close to S$24 billion. This is an increase of 20% over 2003. Thailand was Singapores seventh largest trading partner in 2004. In turn, Singapore is Thailands fifth largest trading partner and fourth largest investor. At the people-to-people level, our two countries have also collaborated fruitfully in education as well as arts and culture, leading to greater awareness and understanding between our two peoples. Your Majesty Thailand and Singapore live in an increasingly complex geostrategic and regional environment. The emergence of China and India are two great forces that will change the regional balance of power. There are also urgent new transboundary challenges for ASEAN such as terrorism, the haze problem and the threat of pandemic diseases like SARS and Avian Flu. To deal effectively with these challenges would require a more united, integrated and outward-looking ASEAN. We need to accelerate ongoing efforts to achieve and ASEAN Community by 2020. To this end, Thailand and Singapore can play an important role. Both countries should continue to seed innovative and helpful ideas like the 2+x approach to promote faster ASEAN integration under the three pillars of the ASEAN Economic, Security and Social-cultural Communities. Thailand and Singapore should also contribute constructively to the efforts to develop the landmark ASEAN Charter. This Charter, which should be an enduring and visionary document that enshrines ASEANs aspirations and principles, would lay the foundation for a new epoch of ASEAN cooperation and growth.260 295. Finally, I would like to fully assure Your Majesty that I shall discharge the duties and responsibilities entrusted to me to the utmost of my ability. My services will always be at the disposal of Your Majesty and the Government of the Kingdom of Thailand. In the course of my duties, I will be deeply honoured to receive Your Majestys benevolence, gracious guidance and the kind cooperation and assistance of Your Majestys Government. I am confident that just like my predecessors, I shall enjoy an enriching and memorable stay in Thailand.261 296. () . . . . . . ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()Mr. Peter Chan Jer Hing262 297. .263 298. UNOFFICIAL TRANSLATIONREPLY OF HIS MAJESTY THE KING Excellency, I am pleased to receive from His Excellency the President of the Republic of Singapore the Letters of Credence accrediting you as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Singapore to Thailand as well as the Letters of Recall of your predecessor. I wish to express to His Excellency the President My sincere thanks for the kind sentiments extended to Me and the Thai people. I would also like to extend, in return, My best wishes for the personal happiness of His Excellency the President as well as for the prosperity of the Republic of Singapore and her people. The friendly relations and close co-operation in various fields of endeavour between Thailand and the Republic of Singapore are bound to increase and expand because our two countries always assist and support each other in an amicable manner. In addition, the exchange of visits by important dignitaries of both countries have played a significant role in strengthening our friendship. I am confident that our co-operation at both the bilateral and multilateral levels, particularly in the ASEAN framework, on the basis of mutual amity and goodwill, will not only sustain and promote the existing cordial relations but will also contribute to friendship and understanding among various nations, which will be beneficial for lasting peace in the world. In the discharge of your official duties, you may rest assured that you will receive My full support and that the Thai authorities will accord you all possible facilities and assistance for the fulfilment of your mission.264 299. SPEECH(1) by His Excellency Mr. Eugene Hutchinson Ambassador of Ireland the presentation of his credentials to His Majesty the King of Thailand on 9th March, 2006Your Majesty, It is a great honour and privilege for me to present my credentials to you as Ambassador of Ireland to the Kingdom of Thailand. Many strong and mutually-beneficial ties have already been forged between the Kingdom of Thailand and Ireland. Contacts have grown steadily during the many years that we have had excellent diplomatic relations. The State Visit to Thailand by President McAleese, the recent visit by Deputy Prime Minister, Dr Surakiart Sathirathai, and the establishment of the Thai-Ireland Chamber of Commerce are examples of our warm and strengthening relationship. Both Thailand and Ireland have made remarkable progress in creating knowledge-based economies and our countries have a keen interest in developing the ICT sector. Education, above all, underpins this development and here, too, Thailand and Ireland share mutual interests. We are fortunate in Ireland to have a first-class education system, particularly in our universities and colleges, and we are keen to explore new opportunities to broaden the co-operation between our two countries in this sector.________________________________________________________________________________________ (1)265 300. Ireland, as a long-standing Member State of the European Union, is committed to furthering and enhancing EU-ASEAN relations as well as the ASEM process. We appreciate the major contribution which Thailand has made to developing contacts between the EU and ASEAN. We also have a deep commitment to the values of the United Nations and its role in international relations. We value, therefore, Thailands support in these important inter-regional interfaces. Your Majesty, I wish to extend to you my personal good wishes. I am looking forward to deepening my knowledge of Thailand and its rich culture as well as developing friendly relations between our peoples. As Ambassador of Ireland, it is my firm intention to strengthening further the many links between our countries. It is also my pleasant duty to convey to Your Majesty the warm personal greetings of the President of Ireland, Mary McAleese, as well as her good wishes for the continued prosperity of the Government and people of the Kingdom of Thailand.266 301. () . . . . . .________________________________________________________________________________________ ()Mr. Eugene Hutchinson267 302. .268 303. UNOFFICIAL TRANSLATIONREPLY OF HIS MAJESTY THE KING Excellency, I am pleased to receive from Her Excellency the President of Ireland the Letters of Credence accrediting you as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ireland to Thailand as well as the Letters of Recall of your predecessor. I wish to express to Her Excellency the President My sincere thanks for the kind sentiments extended to Me, the Government and the Thai people. I would also like to extend, in return, My best wishes for the personal happiness of Her Excellency the president as well as for the prosperity of Ireland and her people. I note with appreciation your reference to the cordial relations and mutual understanding between Thailand and Ireland. Such relations are bound to increase because our two countries enjoy sincere friendship and goodwill as well as assist and support each other in an amicable manner. I am confident that such friendship and your intention to strengthen them yet further will not only promote the relationship between our two countries but will also contribute to solidarity and co-operation among various countries in Asia and Europe, which will be beneficial for durable peace in the world. In the discharge of your official duties, you may rest assured that you will receive My full support and that the Thai authorities will accord you all possible facilities and assistance for the fulfilment of your mission.269 304. SPEECH(1) by His Excellency Mr. Oscar Motswagae Ambassador of the Republic of Botswana the presentation of his credentials to His Majesty the King of Thailand on 9th March, 2006Your Majesty, It is a great honour and privilege for me to convey to you, the Government and people of the Kingdom of Thailand the warm and fraternal greetings of my President, His Excellency Mr Festus Gontebanye Mogae, who still has fond and happy memories of his working visit to Thailand in September 2003. Your Majesty, Botswana and Thailand enjoy very good bilateral relations. The bond between our two countries is strong because we share so many of the same values. We both believe in the democratic ideal, freedom and justice, and the right of our individual citizens of freely participate in the political and economic life of their respective countries. We share common goals of securing our future through sustainable development. And, above all, we both believe that development is a shared concern of all nations, rich and poor, whatever their orientation. These are just but some of our common values that have served to deepen and strengthen friendship and solidarity between our two countries and peoples. It is important that we should continue to work together to further develop and enhance these relations for mutual benefit.________________________________________________________________________________________ (1)270 305. My presence here will accord me the opportunity to represent the people of Botswana, in all their wonderful diversity, to the people of Thailand. It will afford our two countries the opportunity to share ideas and identify areas that we can both exploit for stronger bilateral relations. As a small developing country, Botswana is bedeviled with many challenges. We are doing all we can to address these challenges, knowing fully well that with the support of our friends internationally, including Thailand, we will continue to do better. It is a source of great satisfaction for me to pay tribute, on behalf of my country, to you Your Majesty, the Government and people of Thailand for the tremendous progress this country has achieved on the path towards sustainable development. These achievements give us hope and inspiration that through hard work and commitment, we too in Botswana can attain similar levels of development. Your Majesty, to serve my country as Ambassador to Thailand is a great honour. I want to assure you that I will work every minute of every hour to consolidate what has already been achieved in our bilateral relations, and build upon these achievements to make the bonds of friendship and solidarity between our two countries even stronger. Your Majesty, it is now my great honour to request you to receive the Letters of Commission by which my President, His Excellency Mr. Festus Gontebanye Mogae has accredited me as the Ambassador of the Republic of Botswana to the Kingdom of Thailand. I also have the honour to present the Letters of Recall of my predecessor. I thank you.271 306. () . . . . . . ________________________________________________________________________________________ ()Mr. Osca