Celebrated every Dec. 5, the National Day coincided this year with the 84th Birth Anniversary of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, a much loved and revered monarch among Thai people who has so far reigned for over 60 years.

His birthday, serving as the nation’s Fathers Day, is always commemorated throughout Thailand with festivals, fireworks and food gatherings.

Salem Omar Bashehab, acting director general of the Office of Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Makkah region, was the chief guest. Sakolvari welcomed members from the Saudi and diplomatic community and gave an introductory speech mainly focused on the symbolic and tangible value of King Bhumibol’s reign, which has assured stability for the country for many years.

“Bhumibol (Poom-mi-phon) means ‘Strength of the Land’ and for over six decades, His Majesty continues to devote his energy to countless royal projects and initiatives, which stressed on building strong social foundations to ensure sustainability in key areas of development,” explained Sakolvary.

“His support to over one third of the Thai population recently affected by devastating floods was essential in alleviating grievances in the affected areas,” he added.

According to Salkovary, the king’s appeal to Thai people is testament to his efforts to promote development within the country’s agricultural based economy but also to his human and creative spirit.

Apart from traveling to the remotest corners of the country, showing closeness to his people, Bhumibol is a skillful jazz musician and composer whose compositions were played during the reception.

A final thought and a special thank you went to Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdallah for welcoming 13,000 Thai pilgrims to perform Haj every year and personally sponsoring 70 of them this year.

“No words could describe our heartfelt gratitude for such a kind gesture. We, the Thai people, look forward to strengthening the relationship between the two kingdoms.”

After the speech and playing of the Thai and Saudi national anthems, guests were offered a traditional Thai dinner including tom yam kung soup, pad thai pasta, beef with curry sauce and coconut milk, Thai sweets and other Asian dishes.