BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) and Royal Thai Armed Forces have long enjoyed close and cordial defence relations through high-level visits, military education and training, as well as exchanges of experience and cooperation.
The enduring partnership between both armed forces is expected to continue strengthening in the years ahead.
The strong ties between the RBAF and Royal Thai Armed Forces were highlighted by Defence Attaché at the Royal Thai Embassy Group Captain Woravit Pranet in his speech during the Royal Thai Armed Forces Day reception Monday night (May 11).
Commander of the RBAF Major General Dato Paduka Seri Muhammad Haszaimi Bol Hassan was the guest of honour with spouse Datin Ummisyafinah Zaini.
Group Captain Woravit Pranet said Royal Thai Armed Forces Day “is observed annually on January 18. It commemorates the courage, leadership, and sacrifice of King Naresuan the Great, who fought for the freedom, independence, and unity of the Thai Kingdom more than 400 years ago. His victory remains one of the most significant moments in Thai history and continues to inspire generations of Thai people, especially members of the Royal Thai Armed Forces, to serve the nation with loyalty, courage, and dedication”.
He added, “This important day is also an opportunity for us to honour the sacrifices and devotion of Thai military personnel, past and present, who have dedicated their lives to protecting the nation’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, peace, and stability. Their commitment reflects the core values of the Royal Thai Armed Forces: loyalty to the nation, religion, and monarchy, as well as the determination to serve the people.”
The Royal Thai Armed Forces, he shared “also recognise the importance of strengthening defence and security cooperation with friendly countries and international organisations”.
Ambassador-Designate of Thailand to Brunei Akrapong Chalermnon welcomed the guest of honour and guests.
The ambassador-designate highlighted, “Building upon that legacy, the Royal Thai Armed Forces have also embraced another mission. It is through the Armed Forces Development Command, that they are dedicated to socio-economic development and global peace through United Nations peacekeeping operations. A modern military is measured not by its strength, but rather by its capacity to build resilience and prosperity for the people.”
Over the past 42 years, he shared, “Thailand and Brunei Darussalam have enjoyed robust and close ties at all levels and under the Asean framework. The Royal Thai Armed Forces, in this regard, has played a significant role in fostering this relation through regular visits, exchanges, and cooperation.”
The reception commenced with the national anthems of both Brunei and Thailand while the highlight of the reception was the presentation of a token of appreciation to Major General Dato Paduka Seri Muhammad Haszaimi and spouse. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
