Bangkok: Sri Lanka’s Ambassador has expressed gratitude towards Thailand for maintaining a strong diplomatic relationship over 70 years, while confirming the well-being of two Thai elephants, “Plai Pratu Pha” and “Plai Srinarong.” The ambassador highlighted ongoing cooperation in areas such as economics, labor, and public health.

According to Thai News Agency, the Embassy of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka in Thailand released a statement from Mrs. Ethirisinghe Arajjilake Sriyanee Vijayanti Ethirisinghe, who serves as the Ambassador of Sri Lanka and Permanent Representative to UNESCAP. The statement was issued to commemorate the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Sri Lanka and Thailand on behalf of the Sri Lankan government.

Acknowledging the deep-rooted Buddhist ties, the ambassador emphasized that the elephants are well cared for and symbolize the goodwill between the two nations. Historical connections were highlighted, such as the journey of Phra Upali Thera in 1753 to Kandy, which led to the formation of the “Siam Nikaya” sect in Sri Lanka that continues to receive royal Thai patronage.

The statement also touched upon contemporary collaborations, including the FTA 2024 Thailand-Sri Lanka agreement aimed at boosting trade and investment. Thailand is set to offer employment to over 10,000 Sri Lankan workers, demonstrating faith in their capabilities and strengthening people-to-people connections. Additional collaboration areas mentioned were the gem and jewelry supply chain, aviation, and tourism sectors.

In terms of medical cooperation, a significant initiative involves Siriraj Hospital in Thailand partnering with the Teaching Hospital Kandy to perform knee replacement surgeries for 100 Sri Lankans. This initiative is dedicated to the 70th birthday of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn.

On November 19th, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Suchart Chomklin held discussions with the Sri Lankan ambassador at Government House. The discussions included the Thai government’s request to repatriate the elephants Plai Pratu Pha and Plai Srinarong, following their service in Buddhist ceremonies, so they can spend their final years in Thailand. The ambassador assured that he would bring the request to the Sri Lankan government.

Recently, concerns had been raised by Thai citizens regarding the health of the elephants, prompting calls for their return to Thailand, reminiscent of the case involving Plai Sak Surin.