I had the honour of speaking in Bangkok at a commemoration marking the centenary of the birth of His Excellency Bhichai Rattakul, whose lifetime of public service made an immense contribution to Thailand's progress and international standing. As Foreign Minister, Deputy Prime Minister and President of Parliament, he brought a commitment to diplomacy and integrity that extended well beyond political office.
Held in the magnificent Buddhawichalaya Building at Phranakhon Rajabhat University, the gathering took as its theme "100 Years of Bhichai Rattakul: Service, Leadership, and Peace" and was organised by former Bangkok Governor Dr. Bhichit Rattakul to honour his father's legacy of public service.
Other speakers included former Prime Ministers HE Anand Panyarachun and HE Abhisit Vejjajiva; Professor Dr. Phra Brahmapundit, a member of the Supreme Sangha Council; former Deputy Prime Minister HE Banyat Bantadtan; and former President of the National Assembly Dr. Arthit Ourairat. Their participation reflected the breadth of respect for his life and service.
My remarks focused particularly on the proposed Bhichai Rattakul Peace Award. Through my support for the Rotary peace fellowship programmes at Chulalongkorn University in Bangkok, I have seen first-hand how training in mediation and conflict resolution can help bridge divisions within communities.
Bhichai Rattakul understood deeply that peace depends on people acting with courage, patience and generosity of spirit, both in their personal lives and through the institutions they serve.
This award will identify and support people who strengthen the foundations of lasting peace. It will do more than preserve his memory: it will carry his work forward.
