This week, Thailand, the host country for APEC 2022, will put on a show for APEC leaders and attendees along the Chao Phraya River. The various events held in the Royal Thai Navy Convention Hall should contribute to Thailand’s soft power objectives and assist the world learn more about the Thai people.
According to Itthiphol Kunplome, Minister of Cultural, the government has tasked the culture ministry with planning acts for the Thursday evening welcome meal for APEC leaders. To prepare for this week’s APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting, Thailand is taking steps like these.
Mr. Itthiphol said the performance was organized by the cultural ministry in conjunction with other institutions to celebrate the “Open. Connect. Balance” theme of the 2022 APEC. As a result of all of this hard work, an exciting art and culture show will be put on that vividly portrays the Thai way of life via the use of lighting, music, and special effects. Two distinct performance areas, one outside the VIP areas and one within, are being set up. Khon performances, local theater art displays, craft and dessert demonstrations, fire boat excursions, and the launching of an APEC Krathong are all part of the first half of the celebration.
There are three distinct sets of entertainment inside the VIP area. Thai “soft power” will be displayed at meals with the presentation of traditional Thai cuisine, musical performances by the armed forces, and modern performances by the Fine Arts Department. This later concert will feature vocals by renowned Thai performer Thongchai McIntyre. The second part of the event is a fashion display when designers from the 21 APEC economies showcase their creations using Thai silk. The climactic floating of Krathong will cap off the third and final act, which will feature a performance of contemporary culture.
Souvenirs for APEC leaders and their families have already been created by the government. Here are some examples: silver picture frames, Liphao woven bags, APEC commemorative coins for 2022, metal embossed graphics, hand-woven silk fabric, a list of silk suppliers. The seven objects showcase the richness and complexity of Thai art and culture and are reflective of the country’s rich history. Thailand hopes that these would help advance the country’s soft power strategy internationally.
