WELLINGTON, New Zealand – Thai Prime Minister Anuthin Charnvirakul touched down in New Zealand on August 21 for an official visit and were greeted with the full grandeur of traditional Māori ceremony at Government House, Wellington. The program had it all: the hongi (traditional nose press) from Kaumātua and Kuia elders, the wero (a warrior’s challenge to test the visitors’ peaceful intent), the karanga (ceremonial call of welcome), and a powerful haka performed in the PM’s honor.
He was then welcomed by New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and his wife, followed by a military band playing both national anthems and a guard of honor inspection before the two leaders sat down for bilateral talks. This visit marks a special milestone: 70 years of Thailand–New Zealand diplomatic relations, and comes on the heels of the two countries elevating ties to a Strategic Partnership. Talks are focused on regional peace and stability, economic cooperation, and deeper people-to-people connections between the two nations. Here’s to the next chapter of Thai–Kiwi friendship! (PRD)
