The ceremony, held at the Royal Phuket City Hotel on Tuesday (Sept 24), celebrated the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China and the 37th anniversary of the Phuket Thai-Chinese Association. It also served to formally appoint Patiphan Chaikridathikarn as Association President for the 2025–2026 term.
Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat presided over the event, joined by Wang Zhijian, Consul-General of the People’s Republic of China in Songkhla, outgoing president Dr Chiewchan Siwakunakorn, and representatives from government agencies, the private sector and the local Thai-Chinese community.
Speakers highlighted China’s “rapid progress” over the past 76 years, noting achievements in economic growth, poverty reduction and rising life expectancy. Under the leadership of President Xi Jinping, China continues to pursue its goal of becoming a modern socialist nation while strengthening its role on the global stage, said an official report of the event.
Relations between China and Thailand were also underscored as a cornerstone of regional friendship. Recalling President Xi’s visit to Thailand last year, officials reaffirmed the commitment to a “stable, prosperous and sustainable China-Thailand community”, echoing the well-known phrase that “China and Thailand are brothers and sisters”.
The Phuket Thai-Chinese Association, recognised as a key organisation for overseas Chinese in southern Thailand, has long contributed to Phuket’s social and economic development through charitable work and community initiatives that foster ties between the two nations.
During the handover ceremony, Dr Chiewchan presented the Association’s flag to Mr Patiphan, who also serves as President of the Phuket Hakka Association.
In his acceptance speech, Mr Patiphan pledged to continue strengthening the spirit of mutual assistance within the Thai-Chinese community, while working closely with government and private sectors to advance Phuket’s prosperity and promote enduring Sino-Thai friendship.