On 3 December 2025, the Royal Thai Embassy in Budapest hosted a reception to commemorate the National Day of the Kingdom of Thailand, the birthday anniversary of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great, and the Thai Father’s Day. The event was held at Gundel Cafe Patisserie Restaurant in Budapest, with Mr. István Jakab, Deputy Speaker of the Hungarian National Assembly, as the guest of honor. Approximately, 250 attendees joined, including representatives from the diplomatic corps in Budapest, senior representatives from Hungarian public and private sectors, Friends of Thailand, local media, and representatives from Thai private sectors and the Thai community in Hungary.

During the ceremony, the Ambassador invited attendees to observe a moment of silence in tribute to Her Majesty Queen Sirikit the Queen Mother, then highlighted the significance of 5 December – the birthday anniversary of His Majesty King Rama IX, National Day, and Father’s Day. He further highlighted the far-reaching royal contributions of both King Rama IX and Her Majesty the Queen Mother, including the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy, water management, Thai silk, handicrafts, and their roles in shaping the Thai identity.

He also outlined recent progress in Thailand–Hungary relations, including cultural events, Thai investments, economic cooperation, and high-level political visits, notably the recent visit of the Speaker of the Thai Parliament. He emphasized shared values of peace and sovereignty and noted the historical ties symbolized by King Rama V’s visit to Gundel. In response, Mr. Jakab expressed admiration for Thailand’s history, culture, and development, stressing that bilateral relations are now at their strongest in decades, covering economic cooperation, sustainable development, regional security, cultural exchanges, and dynamic parliamentary ties, especially following the Speaker of Thai Parliament’s visit to Hungary in November.

Hungary views Thailand as an important partner under its “Eastern Opening” policy, with active economic cooperation and growing opportunities in the water industry, medical technologies, and agricultural innovation. Educational ties continue to expand, particularly through the Stipendium Hungaricum Programme. Hungary is also inspired by Thailand’s strengths in tourism and culture. Mr. Jakab concluded by noting that, in a challenging global environment, Hungary values partnerships grounded in shared interests and principles, and regards Thailand as such a partner. He conveyed his wishes for Thailand’s peace and prosperity and reaffirmed Hungary’s commitment to further strengthening Thai–Hungarian friendship.

The reception featured a violin performance of royal compositions of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great, performed by Mr. Phongphairoj Lertsudwichai, a Thai music student from University of Szeged, as well as a tribute video honoring Her Majesty the Queen Mother. Guests were served Thai cuisine, including Tom Yum Kung and Pad Thai – prepared by the Thai Residence, with additional offerings from the Restaurant, Thai President Foods (Hungary) Kft., and Rim Thanonh Thai Restaurant. Thai souvenirs were also presented to attendees, further promoting Thai cuisine, products, and culture to a wider audience.