Thai PM promotes culinary diplomacy in UK

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra speaks at the Thai SELECT certification ceremony for 20 Thai restaurants in the UK on May 22. (Source: Office of the Prime Minister of Thailand)

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s presence in London reflects Bangkok’s desire to pursue an enhanced trade and investment partnership with the land of fog. Moreover, the highlight of the visit was the head of government ’s presiding over the launch of the Thai SELECT logo at an event hosted by “Team Thailand”, led by Ekachat Seetavorarat, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce, and Pornvit Silaon, Deputy Director-General of the Department of International Trade Promotion.

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At the ceremony, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra awarded Thai SELECT certification to 20 restaurants, part of the Thai government's Soft Power initiative to expand the global reach of authentic Thai cuisine .

Speaking at the event, Ms. Paetongtarn Shinawatra reaffirmed the government's commitment to developing a Soft Power strategy, especially through Thai cuisine - a globally recognized cultural ambassador, both for its distinctive taste, quality and meticulous preparation standards.

“Thai restaurants abroad serve as frontline ambassadors in promoting Thai identity, while also generating significant economic value,” the leader said, stressing the important role of establishing an international network of authentic Thai establishments.

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra presides over the launch of the new Thai SELECT certification and introduces Miang kham, a popular dish in the UK. (Source: Office of the Prime Minister of Thailand)

After the certificate presentation ceremony, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra participated in a cooking demonstration of Miang kham - a popular Thai dish with a chef from a Thai SELECT restaurant to introduce the richness of Thai culinary culture to more than 20 local influencers and media representatives.

The unique combination of Thai herbs, fruits and spices in Miang kham has made this dish particularly appealing to British chefs and diners.

Raising the bar

The Thai SELECT certification, administered by the Ministry of Commerce, awards Thai restaurants and prepared products overseas that meet high standards of quality and taste. The new version of the certification incorporates the “golden orchid star” symbol, which represents international quality, authentic Thai taste and a unique culinary experience.

There are currently 115 Thai SELECT certified restaurants in the UK. (Source: Thai.news)

The certification is valid at four levels: Thai SELECT Casual for casual establishments such as small eateries and mobile food carts, Thai SELECT 1 star for high-quality casual restaurants, Thai SELECT 2 stars for upscale establishments and Thai SELECT 3 stars, the highest title for upscale Thai restaurants.

To date, 115 Thai restaurants in major UK cities such as London, Manchester, Glasgow and Edinburgh have been certified Thai SELECT, out of a total of 1,779 establishments globally. The initiative reinforces Thailand’s commitment to showcasing its cultural strengths through culinary arts, while also boosting economic and tourism benefits.

According to Pattaya Mail , there are currently about 18,850 Thai restaurants worldwide.

The Thai SELECT certification program aims to use food as a tool to expand Thailand's cultural and economic footprint internationally. (Source: Pattaya Mail)

According to the Thai Ministry of Commerce, the UK is Thailand’s fourth-largest European trading partner, with bilateral trade reaching $6.66 billion last year. Thailand’s top five exports to the UK are processed chicken, machinery and parts, jewellery and accessories, motorcycles and parts, and automobiles and components.

Source: https://baoquocte.vn/thu-tuong-thai-lan-quang-ba-ngoai-giao-am-thuc-o-anh-315391.html