Governor of Minnesota welcomes Thai Ambassador while officially recognizing the 190 years of Thai-US diplomatic relations

On 26 May 2023, Ambassador Tanee Sangrat, called upon Governor Tim Walz of Minnesota, on the occasion of the former’s visit to preside over the opening ceremony of 2023 Minnesota Songkran Festival, which is one of the largest Songkran Festivals in the US.

Both sides congratulated each other on the 190th anniversary of Thai-US diplomatic relations and discussed ways to cooperate between Thailand and Minnesota. These included trade and investment, startups, energy, and climate related issues.  Importantly, the Ambassador and the Governor commended the strength of the Thai community in Minnesota, which might be small in number, but had proven to be extremely capable with extensive network among different Southeast Asian Communities and local entities, culminating in the prosperity of Minnesota through various cultural activities. The Minnesota Songkran Festival 2023, which is taking place in front of the State Capitol under the theme “Songkran For All”, is an epitome of such quality.

Ambassador Tanee took this opportunity to extend an invitation to the Governor to lead a business delegation to Thailand to further enhance the two sides’ trade and investment.

In marking the 190 years of Thai-US diplomatic relations, the Governor issued a Proclamation to formally recognize this auspicious occasion and the State of Minnesota held a commemorative ceremony  at the Rotunda, which is the central hall of the State Capitol. Representatives of the Thai community and prominent members of the Minnesotan side were also invited to witness this special event.