VP Harris commends Thailand on hosting APEC

Vice President Kamala Harris has praised Thailand for its sterling job hosting the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC). VP Harris made the comments during a meeting with Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, in which they discussed increasing cooperation on a range of issues.

“The Vice President commended Thailand on a successful APEC Host Year and noted that the U.S. will build on this strong foundation during our 2023 APEC Host Year,” Harris’ staff said in an official readout of the meeting.

VP Harris was one of many dignitaries who gave positive reviews to the Kingdom for its warm welcome and efficiency that marked its role as APEC host.

APEC Secretariat Executive Director Rebecca Sta Maria also said that she admired Thailand’s attentive efforts to host the meetings, and ensure security for meeting participants.

Maria cited the Kingdom’s world-class facilities and excellent management in hosting these meetings, as well as the overall theme that encourages progress amid challenges, adding that this year is another successful year for APEC.

Before departing the Kingdom, VP Harris visited Wat Ratchabophit, a Buddhist temple built in 1869 by blending Thai and Gothic architecture, and is regarded by some as the epitome of elegance in a Theravada Buddhist style.

Ninety-five-year-old Somdet Phra Ariyavongsagatanana, the Supreme Patriarch of Thailand’s Buddhist clergy or sangha, welcomed VP Harris to the temple and gave her a tour around its grounds.

“Our friendship is weaved from mutual understanding based on the freedom of conscience, belief and religion that the ancestors of both our countries have so painstakingly cultivated,” the Supreme Patriach told the Vice President.

“As such, your visit would be remembered, treasured, and celebrated as an indisputable testament to our everlasting relationship and heritage, in keeping with our forebears’ tradition while preserving it for future generations,” he added.

Harris responded that she was honored to visit the temple and meet His Holiness, and that her goal is to strive and create peace and harmony in the world.

Photo courtesy of https://www.mfa.go.th/