Ambassador of Thailand to Qatar, H E Sira Swangsilpa
Doha, Qatar: Ambassador of Thailand to Qatar, H E Sira Swangsilpa, expressed the significance of Thailand’s participation in the AFC Asian Cup 2023, marking their 8th entry into the tournament. The Ambassador said that the second oldest continental football championship in the world is a way to strengthen people-to-people relations, not only within Southeast Asia but also on a global scale. Ambassador Swangsilpa stressed the tournament’s role in promoting cultural exchanges.
“The AFC Asian Cup 2023 in Qatar will create the opportunity for people from different countries to meet and spark meaningful cultural exchanges. Thailand’s participation in this tournament has created the opportunity for us to share our culture through interpersonal exchanges and through participation in the cultural side events,” he told The Peninsula.
Reflecting on the historical connection, he mentioned Thailand’s first entry during the 5th AFC Asian Cup held in 1972 when they secured the third position while hosting the event.
Moreover, the envoy also invited attendees to explore Thailand’s pavilion at the “Hello Asia” event on Lusail Boulevard “to get a glimpse of Thai culture, that will be on display throughout the tournament period.”
Highlighting Thailand’s rich cultural heritage, Ambassador Swangsilpa, encouraged spectators to engage with the Thai cultural events during the tournament which will run until February 10. This participation serves as an opportunity for the Southeast Asian country to showcase its traditions and values, fostering mutual understanding among diverse nations.
Shifting focus to the Thai national football team’s preparations, the Ambassador expressed pride in qualification of the team despite that the ranking is not as high compared to other formidable teams. Placed in Group F alongside teams like Saudi Arabia, he acknowledged the challenging journey ahead, anticipating that the experience gained would be invaluable for the Thai players.Confident in the team’s dedication, Ambassador Swangsilpa assured that the Thai players would give their best effort in the tournament. “I am confident that our team is very dedicated and will put in all their best effort in this tournament.” Thailand will play their first match against Kyrgyzstan at Abdullah bin Khalifa Stadium today.
