The Royal Thai Embassy and the Saudi Muaythai Federation hosted “Muaythai Gala 2024.” Originating in Thailand and developing into an international sport, Muaythai has become of particular interest to Saudi athletes in recent years. The Gala shone two stars – (i) the thriving relationship between Thailand and Saudi Arabia; (ii) the art of Muaythai, which exalts the great values of sport, going beyond diplomacy and politics.
HRH Prince Fahad bin Mansour bin Saad bin Saud bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Vice President of the International Federation of Muaythai Associations (IFMA) and President of the Saudi Muaythai Federation, reflecting on how the Muaythai contribute to Saudi-Thai diplomatic relations, stated, “Sports and athletes are powerful ambassadors for bringing people together beyond politics, economics or trade, making them an important part of diplomacy. I believe that being part of the IFMA family is my most important achievement. This honor and opportunity allow us as a federation and me personally to work together to promote Muaythai in Saudi Arabia and worldwide.”
The Ambassador of Thailand, H.E. Darm Boontham, discussing the significance of the Muaythai Gala 2024 being held at the Embassy of Thailand in the heart of Saudi diplomacy – Diplomatic Quarter, stated, “The Muaythai Gala 2024 represents the same ideals as the Diplomatic Quarter, it is an event which celebrates international cooperation, friendship, and culture. We are not here to celebrate Muaythai as a national sport but rather to honor its presence as a global cultural heritage owned by the international community. Through international cooperation, Muaythai has become greater than the sum of its parts.”
Indeed, the Muaythai Gala 2024 in the heart of Saudi Arabia vividly showcased this sport’s pillars of respect, honor, tradition, fair play and excellence, by bringing together the international community of the Diplomatic Quarter to explore diplomacy from a new perspective.
