On 6 March 2024, the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) granted approval for Thailand to host the 2029 International Horticultural Expo in Nakhon Ratchasima, also known as Korat province, from 10 November 2029 to 28 February 2030. H.E. Mr. Sira Swangsilpa, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand to the State of Qatar, along with representatives from Thailand, presented the bid to host the expo, themed “Nature and Greenery: Envisioning the Green Future,” during the AIPH Spring Meeting 2024 at the Expo Congress Center on 4 March 2024.
During the presentation, Mr. Rapibhat Chandarasrivongs, Director General of the Department of Agriculture, Associate Professor Dr. Peeradorn Kaewlai, Advisor of the Horticultural Expo and Dr. Metinee Srivatanakul, Secretary General of the Horticultural Science Society of Thailand, outlined the expo’s sustainability strategy and legacy plans. H.E. Ambassador reiterated the commitment to host the expo from all levels of the Royal Thai Government and concerned authorities, including Nakhon Ratchasima province. Mr. Sayam Sirimongkol, Governor of Nakhon Ratchasima province, and several private sector representatives from Nakhon Ratchasima province, as well as Mr. Wanchai Khongkasame, Governor of Udon Thani province, the host for Udon Thani Expo 2026, also participated in the meeting.
Furthermore, H.E. Ambassador assigned Mr. Kittithep Devahastin, Deputy Head of Mission, as the representative of the Embassy to participate in the opening ceremony of the Thai Pavilion showcasing Thailand's readiness for the Udon Thani Expo 2026, which is part of the Doha Expo 2023, held at Al Bidda Park in Doha. The Pavilion will be open until 28 March 2024.
The Royal Thai Embassy extend its congratulations to Nakhon Ratchasima province for this significant success. Hosting the Korat Expo 2029 is anticipated to not only attract tourism to the province and surrounding areas but also stimulate economic activities and further promote Thailand’s positive and constructive roles on sustainable development in the international level.