By Chandan Singh | Page 3 News Worldwide | New Delhi
Bangkok: Cultural diplomacy, youth engagement and shared heritage figured prominently during a meeting between a delegation behind the proposed India–Thailand Cultural & Heritage Youth Engagement Programme 2027 – “From Ayodhya to Ayutthaya” and H.E. Shri Puneet Agrawal, Ambassador of India to Thailand, in Bangkok.
The delegation was led by Rahul Laxman Patil, Strategist and Researcher, and Convener & Committee Chair of the initiative, accompanied by Avneesh Kabra, Organising Committee Member and Thailand Coordinator.
The interaction focused on strengthening India–Thailand cultural ties, people-to-people connectivity, youth engagement, tourism, education and cultural cooperation, particularly as the two countries prepare to mark the 80th Anniversary of the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations in 2027.
A key proposal discussed was the “From Ayodhya to Ayutthaya” Heritage Motorcycle Journey 2027, envisaged as part of the wider cultural and heritage programme. According to the initiative, the journey would provide a platform for heritage diplomacy, cultural exchange, youth participation and people-to-people engagement, while highlighting longstanding civilisational links between India and Thailand.
The discussions also highlighted shared traditions associated with Ramayana heritage, Buddhist traditions and historical exchanges, alongside the importance of developing contemporary cultural and youth networks between the two countries.
Patil’s professional areas include Track-II diplomacy, civilisational dialogue, cultural affairs, BIMSTEC regional cooperation and youth engagement, while Kabra is responsible for Thailand-based coordination and engagement for the initiative.
The proposed programme aims to bring the shared heritage of India and Thailand into greater public focus through cultural exchange, heritage engagement, youth participation, educational interaction and people-to-people connectivity as the two nations prepare to commemorate eight decades of diplomatic relations.
