On 28 April 2025, the Royal Thai Embassy in London, in collaboration with the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) of the United Kingdom, hosted a diplomatic reception to commemorate the 170th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Thailand and the United Kingdom at the Locarno Suite, FCDO. The event was presided over by Minister Catherine West MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Minister for the Indo-Pacific), and H.E. Mr. Nadhavathna Krishnamra, Ambassador of Thailand to the United Kingdom.

On this occasion, the Minister and the Ambassador reaffirmed the longstanding and close ties between the two nations across various dimensions and at multiple levels. In particular, they highlighted the elevation of bilateral relations to a strategic partnership over the past year, as well as the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on an Enhanced Trade Partnership – a significant step towards a future free trade agreement between Thailand and the UK.

Highlights of the evening included the special exhibition of the original Bowring Treaty – the historic document marking the beginning of formal diplomatic relations between the two nations – made possible through the kind cooperation of The National Archives of the United Kingdom. The event also featured a live musical performance interwoven with storytelling that traced the evolution of Thailand–UK relations from the signing of the Bowring Treaty during the reign of King Mongkut (Rama IV) to the present day.

In celebration of this enduring friendship, the reception presented a special menu blending the culinary identities of both countries. Creative fusion dishes included Beef Wellington with Panang Sauce, Friendship Scotch Eggs, Shepherd’s Pie with Thai basil beef, and Turmeric-battered Fish and chips with Sriracha mayo, symbolising the harmony and shared values between the Thai and British peoples.

The event was attended by more than 250 distinguished guests, including senior representatives from government, politics, business, academia, and some representatives of Thai community associations in different parts of the UK, all of whom came together to mark this historic milestone and celebrate the strength and depth of Thailand–UK relations over the past 170 years.