Los Angeles —
At 2 PM (Los Angeles time), on November 11th, 2024, Thai PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra visited Wat Thai of Los Angeles, where she met with members of the Thai community and participated in religious ceremonies.
She paid her respects to the Buddha statue, offered donations to the abbot, and received a $30,000 check-raised by the community to support flood relief efforts in Thailand.
During her address to the community, she shared her excitement to reconnect with Thai citizens abroad, reflecting on childhood visits to Los Angeles. She expressed appreciation for the contributions of Thais in the U.S., highlighting their role in preserving Thai culture and supporting economic development back home.
She encouraged young Thai professionals abroad to consider returning to contribute to Thailand’s growth and innovation, assuring them of government efforts to expand opportunities in Thailand.
In alignment with the government’s focus on promoting soft power, Paetongtarn praised Thai cultural events in the U.S., such as Songkran, which has gained international recognition.
She also toured the temple’s Thai food market and enjoyed cultural performances by Thai students, including traditional dance and Muay Thai demonstrations. Many attendees, including some wearing red shirts with “For Pheu Thai Family” slogans, greeted her enthusiastically.
