On September 19-20, 2024, Miss Somjai Taphaopong, Consul General of Thailand in New York, accompanied by Consul Katesuda Thongna, visited Cornell University in Ithaca, New York. The Consul General met with Professor Dr. Thak Chaloemtiarana and Dr. Ngampit Jagacinski, esteemed senior lecturers in the Southeast Asia Program (SEAP), to discuss and extend the Consulate General’s support for the program’s efforts to promote Thai Language instruction, deepen understanding about Thailand and advance Thai Studies, which have been conducted for over 70 years.

 

     The Consul General and her delegation also toured Olin Library, one of the largest repositories of Southeast Asian books and materials in the United States, including a significant Thai collection, and discussed potential collaborations to organize Thai-related exhibitions and events at the library.

 

     Additionally, the Consul General took the opportunity to meet with the Thai community at Cornell University, which included around 50 Thai students, lecturers, librarians, and staff, as well as to visit Thai-owned businesses in Ithaca. She shared updates on the Consulate General’s work, including consular services and its continued support for the Thai community’s activities.

 

     In 2024, the Consulate General has strived to its commitment in promoting the Thai language and culture, aligning its efforts with the soft power policy to enhance "Thainess" on the global stage. This includes expanding knowledge and deepening understanding of Thailand through various channels, involving partnerships with Cornell University, Ohio University, the Thai Cultural Center of New York, and the Buddhist Sunday Schools of Vajiradhammapadip Temple in New York, Nawamintararachutis Temple in Massachusetts, and Mongkoltepmunee Temple in Pennsylvania. Furthermore, the Consulate General has also contributed books and materials to university libraries to support the establishment of Thai Corners, enhancing research and study focused on Thailand.