The European Union (EU) has made a lasting contribution to Bangkok’s city-wide tree planting initiative, with a symbolic ceremony hosted this morning at Lumphini Park.

At the heart of the Thai capital overlooking the Royal Monument of King Rama VI, EU Ambassador to Thailand H.E. Mr David Daly was present with guests of honour Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ms Busadee Santipitaks and Governor of Bangkok Mr Chadchart Sittipunt. Together, they joined hands to each plant one Siamese rosewood, or pa-yoong. The EU funds to conserve the endangered species through the project Partners Against Wildlife Crime.

Ambassadors from EU and ASEAN Member States as well as the broader diplomatic community in Thailand witnessed the momentous event alongside members of the public.

With plans to donate a further 600 trees across Bangkok – a nod to the 60 years of relations – the EU is committed to supporting Thailand’s green initiatives, which are also in line with the European Green Deal. In addition to 200 more pa-yoong, the donation will include 200 yellow star trees and 200 teak woods, which are equally symbolic to Thais.

‘The EU’s and Thailand’s common aspirations for resource-efficient, inclusive, innovative, net-zero emissions and green economies are clear in our bilateral roadmap set in December,’ said Ambassador Daly. ‘Big changes can start in little ways, and the trees we plant here today – along with our partnership and friendship – will continue to grow for generations to come.’

The ceremony on 9 May comes on the occasion of Europe Day 2023 – an annual commemoration of peace, solidarity, diversity and unity, in the spirit of the Schuman declaration in 1950 – also marking 60 years of friendship and diplomatic relations between the EU and Thailand. It begins a series of celebratory events this month such as the EU Sustainable Food & Craft Market on 20 May, to mark a new chapter in these relations since their establishment on 28 August 1962.

Media agencies AFP and Reuters, along with outlets including Bangkok Post, Daily News, Khao Sod, Matichon (Thai), Nation and Thai Rath were on site to cover the event.

Photos from the event can be seen on EUD’s social media at Facebook and Twitter.