On December 15, 2023, Consul General Somjai Taphaopong hosted a luncheon in honor of ASEAN Consuls General, including Consul General Amir Farid Abu Hasan (Malaysia), Consul General Winanto Adi (Indonesia), Consul General Senen T. Mangalile (The Philippines), Consul Christine Tay (Singapore), and U.S. officials in New York City, including Commissioner Edward Mermelstein from New York City’s Mayor’s Office for International Affairs and Regional Director Alexander K. Hardin from the Office of Foreign Missions. The luncheon was also attended by Ms. Ketsuree Vijaranakorn, Senior Director of the Thai Trade Center.

 

     On this occasion, Consul General Somjai actively exchanged ideas to strengthen the relationship and cooperation between the Royal Thai Consulate General and the ASEAN Consulates General, as well as U.S. agencies. Additionally, she took this opportunity to promote Thai rice, Thai cuisine, and Thai restaurants through the ThaiSelect project, creating a positive impression and enhancing the popularity of Thai culture through cuisine among the participants.