Dear Minister Sihasak,

Former Prime Minister Srettha

Members of Parliament, Senators

Ladies and Gentlemen, dear friends!

It is a great pleasure to see you here as we celebrate the Day of German Unity. This day reminds us not only of the reunification of Germany, but also of the values of freedom, democracy and solidarity that unite us across borders. Celebrations in Germany this year took place under the motto „Future through Change“, and I would like to use this concept also for our celebrations here today.

Germany's journey to reunification, and the (one might say: temporary) end of Cold War confrontation around the world, was a shining example of how far-reaching change for the better is possible. It was driven by the authentic and overwhelming wish for freedom, for a prosperous future and for independence from Soviet domination among the people of East Germany, but also in the former Warsaw Pact countries. In fact, German reunification would never have been possible without the will for freedom and self-determination also of our Central and Eastern European friends and neighbors. And actually, it is exactly this wish which is today driving the people of Ukraine to resist the continuing Russian invasion of their homeland so decisively. By fighting and sometimes dying at the front, or by suffering indiscriminate bombardments of their inner cities.

World politics have changed dramatically, and Russia’s war of conquest in Ukraine is just one example. But also in economy, in technology, in the environment, in trade: change and disruption are profound and continuing at unprecedented speed. You all know the challenges I am thinking of. For instance artificial intelligence, global warming, prohibitive trade barriers and the exploitation of monopolistic structures in international trade.

If we think of what our reaction (or: our solution) can be, I believe the answer is again: Change. It is up to us all, in particular our political and business leaders, to rise to these new challenges, not by simply resisting them, but by adapting to them and by steering developments. By becoming more resilient in the defense of our shared core principles, interests and values. By reforming and modernizing our politics, our economies and our societies to make them competitive, and to keep them accepted and respected by our populations.

I believe that this drive for transformation and innovation is what will be critical for the future of our two countries, Thailand and Germany, and what can unite us. In now 163 years of bilateral ties, our relationship has grown steadily and now rests on multiple pillars, in particular: political cooperation, economy, culture and people to people relations.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

I have spoken about the political landscape. But our partnership is also fueled by trade, investment, and innovation, with hundreds of German companies contributing to Thailand's development, and Thai businesses in turn enriching the fabric of Germany's economy. With considerable progress in the negotiations towards an EU-Thai Free Trade Agreement, the prospect of an even deeper trade and investment relationship between Thailand, Europe and Germany is coming closer.

Germany, the third-largest global economy, and Thailand have a lot to offer to each other. Both Thailand and Germany have a distinct economic focus on industrial manufacturing and export, which makes them practically ideal partners. Let me underline this, with regard to the multiple challenges I mentioned: In the EU and in Germany, Thailand will always find a fair, reliable and cooperative partner that seeks mutual benefit, not domination. Forming and enhancing global partnerships is not only the answer to geopolitical threats, but also to disruption in economy and trade.

Turning to climate change and sustainability, Germany is Thailand´s largest bilateral partner in climate policy. A critical piece of this partnership is the Thai-German Cooperation on Energy, Mobility and Climate. This year, our respective Energy Ministries further established the „Thai-German Energy Dialogue“ with the signing of a Joint Declaration of Intent. Through this dialogue, both countries aim to work closely to reduce carbon emissions and achieve shared climate and energy goals – an important step in the direction of a green and sustainable energy transition.

As we reflect on the historical significance of the Day of German Unity, let us therefore also look forward to a future where our partnership continues to grow stronger. Together, we can address global challenges, promote sustainable development, and help build a world that values universal human values and creates a promising future for our children, through change.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

I have been speaking about business and our economic ties. Allow me at this point also to thank the sponsors of today’s event - Bayer, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Leschaco, Singha Beer and Haribo – for their generous support. Also thanks to them, we are able to host you at this beautiful venue and to offer you German delicacies. Many thanks for their partnership and support.

And thank you for joining us in this celebration.

It is now my distinct honor to give the word to his Excellency Minister Sihasak, for some remarks of his own.