The presentation of the Royal Kathina Robes to the All India Bhikkhu Sangha in Gaya, Bihar, India, on October 11, 2025, represents far more than a symbolic gesture. It’s a carefully orchestrated element of Thailand’s long-standing cultural diplomacy strategy, one increasingly vital as geopolitical currents shift and traditional alliances face unprecedented challenges. This initiative, now in its 15th year, exemplifies Thailand’s ongoing efforts to leverage its deep Buddhist heritage – a cornerstone of its national identity – to strengthen relationships across a diverse range of nations. The event, highlighted by a total donation of 560,911 THB and 49,510 INR, and the accompanying distribution of Buddha statues, underscores a strategic approach built around fostering ‘people-to-people ties’ – a crucial concept in an era of rising nationalism and declining trust in multilateral institutions.
Historically, Thailand’s engagement with Buddhism abroad has been rooted in a complex interplay of factors. Following World War II and the subsequent rise of communist influence in Southeast Asia, Thailand – under Prime Minister Plaek Phibunsongkhram – proactively sought to establish itself as a regional leader and a bastion of conservative values. Buddhism, seen as a symbol of stability and moral authority, became a key tool in this effort. The early cultural diplomacy programs, initiated in the 1960s and 70s, primarily targeted neighboring countries – Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia – reflecting anxieties about communist infiltration and the desire to maintain regional stability. As Thailand’s economy developed and its regional influence grew, the scope of these programs expanded to include countries across Asia, reflecting a strategic effort to build goodwill and diversify its diplomatic portfolio. This evolution demonstrates a critical adaptation to changing security landscapes.
The 2025 iteration, extending the program to eight nations—India, Myanmar, Malaysia, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Laos PDR, Vietnam, and China—signals a deliberate recalibration. India, a nation with a burgeoning economy and increasingly assertive foreign policy, is a particularly significant focal point. The engagement demonstrates Thailand’s commitment to deepening ties with a major regional power while navigating the complexities of a relationship increasingly shaped by competition for influence in the Indo-Pacific. Moreover, the inclusion of China, a rising global power with a vastly different political system, highlights Thailand’s willingness to engage with countries that hold fundamentally opposed viewpoints. According to Dr. Mahashweta Maharathi, Secretary of the Bodhgaya Temple Management Committee (BTMC), “These events are not simply about donating materials; they’re about cultivating understanding and respect for shared cultural traditions – a crucial element in building sustainable partnerships in a world rife with misunderstanding.”
The expansion of the program’s reach beyond Southeast Asia reflects a broader strategic imperative. Thailand, facing a volatile geopolitical environment, increasingly recognizes the value of “soft power” – utilizing cultural and economic influence to achieve its foreign policy objectives. The Royal Kathina Robes initiative provides a tangible way to demonstrate Thailand’s commitment to regional stability and engagement, counterbalancing potential pressures from larger powers. The event’s success depends heavily on the ‘people-to-people’ component; creating a network of Buddhist communities and individuals who can act as informal diplomatic channels. As H.E. Ms. Chavanart Thangsumphant, Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, stated, “Ultimately, our aim is to foster a sense of shared values and mutual understanding, contributing to a more peaceful and prosperous world.”
Looking ahead, the Royal Kathina Robes program faces both opportunities and challenges. The next six months will likely see continued efforts to strengthen relationships within the existing network, particularly in India and Southeast Asia, areas where Thailand has a significant diplomatic footprint. However, the program’s long-term viability hinges on its ability to adapt to evolving geopolitical dynamics. In the 5-10 year timeframe, the program must address potential disruptions caused by rising geopolitical tensions, particularly regarding China’s assertive foreign policy and India’s growing regional influence. Furthermore, Thailand needs to diversify its engagement beyond traditional Buddhist communities, considering partnerships with academic institutions and cultural organizations to broaden the program’s reach and enhance its credibility. The success of this endeavor will ultimately depend on Thailand’s ability to successfully demonstrate its role as a credible and reliable partner in a world characterized by uncertainty and competing interests. The ability to adapt and innovate within this framework will be a key determinant of its success – a true test of Thailand’s enduring commitment to cultural diplomacy in a profoundly altered global order.