In a statement released on 7 Jul 2025, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that H.E. Mr. Russ Jalichandra, Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs, welcomed a delegation from the 14th Thai American Youth Heritage Program at Vithes Samosorn, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
This year, over 220 youth and parents from California, Oregon, Washington, Arizona, Texas, Nevada, and Kansas participated in the program during 28 June – 15 July 2025. Mr. Tor Saralamba, Consul-General of Thailand in Los Angeles, also accompanied the delegation during their stay in Thailand.
The Vice Minister congratulated the group on the success of the long-standing program, which has been continuing for more than 40 years. The Program serves to strengthen Thai American youth’s connection to their motherland and promotes people-to-people relations between Thailand and the U.S.
Established every two years by the Thai community in the U.S., with the support from the Royal Thai Consulate-General in Los Angeles, the Thai American Youth Heritage Program offers Thai American youth born and raised in the U.S. an opportunity to experience the essence of Thainess through cultural study tours, visits to historical sites, and community service.
This gesture highlights Thailand's commitment to fostering stronger ties with its international partners, particularly in areas such as education and people-to-people diplomacy. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is dedicated to promoting Thailand's culture and values, as well as strengthening bilateral relationships that benefit both nations.
The program is a testament to the enduring friendship between Thailand and the United States, built on decades of mutual respect and cooperation. As Thai-American relations continue to grow, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue to support initiatives like this, ensuring the prosperity and understanding of both countries.
The significance of this event underscores the importance of engaging in people-to-people diplomacy, allowing for a deeper understanding of each other's cultures and fostering stronger international relationships.
By strengthening such exchanges, Thailand reinforces its role as an active participant in regional and global affairs.