On 27 October 2026, the Royal Thai Embassy in London, in collaboration with the Association of Thai Businesses in the UK (ATBUK) and the Anglo-Thai Society, co-organised a special lecture marking the 130th anniversary of His Majesty King Chulalongkorn (King Rama V)’s first visit to Europe, including the UK. Entitled “130 Years of Remembrance: King Chulalongkorn’s Visit to the United Kingdom in 1897,” the lecture was delivered by Dr. Wit Sittivaekin, well-known Thai communicator and history storyteller. Approximately 60 participants, including Mrs. Priabthip Krishnamra, spouse of the Ambassador, representatives from prominent British museums and institutions, such as the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) and the British Library, as well as members of ATBUK and the Anglo-Thai Society attended the event which took place at the Royal Thai Embassy in London.

     H.E. Mr. Nadhavathna Krishnamra, Ambassador of Thailand to the UK, gave opening remarks highlighting the significance of 2027, which will mark the 130th anniversary of King Chulalongkorn’s first visit to Europe and the UK in 1897, as well as the 120th anniversary of His Majesty’s second European tour in 1907. King Chulalongkorn’s European grand tour marked a significant milestone in the development of Thailand’s relations with European countries, including the UK. The historic visit reflected His Majesty’s strategic foresight and diplomatic acumen in reapproaching diplomatic ties and learning from Western advances in science as well as technology, and gaining insights on national development. These efforts laid the foundations for the modernisation of Siam and helped preserve the country’s sovereignty in challenging times.

     The Ambassador also highlighted the historical significance of Taplow Court in Buckinghamshire, where King Chulalongkorn stayed. He further shared the Embassy’s commemorative activities in 2027 to mark the 130th anniversary of the King’s first European tour including the UK. The lecture served as a launch event for these commemorative initiatives, providing an opportunity for participants to exchange historical knowledge and perspectives while further strengthening the longstanding ties of friendship between Thailand and the UK.