Chalee Sakolvari, Thai Consul General, welcomed guests on the occasion of Thai film night as part of the Asian Film Festival at the Brunei Consulate General in Jeddah Friday. (Saudi Gazette photo by Fouzia Khan)JEDDAH: Thai Consul General Chalee Sakolvari said that the mutual understanding of the cultures and traditions of nations can lead to better relations between countries. Speaking on the occasion of Thai film night Friday, as part of the Asian Film Festival held at the Brunei Consulate General, Sakolvari said, “We value Saudi culture and traditions. It will certainly enhance relations culturally if people of the two countries come to know about each other better, even about their way of life through such events, festivals and films. I am sure the enhancement of culture in any form is the best way to create a closer relationship.” He also said that he hoped that Saudi Arabian Airlines and Thai Airlines would resume their direct flights. “The idea of direct flights to Thailand from Saudi Arabia can enhance relations between the two countries. I hope both airlines can resume such flights,” he said. He explained that traveling to Thailand is very easy, as travel visas are easily available with few restrictions, adding that anyone who wants to go to Thailand can get a visa from the Royal Thai Consulate General. “Thailand is a very beautiful place to visit. Phuket which we showed in tonight's film is a famous island which is very popular with tourists. There are a number of other places as well where people can visit,” he said. “We have sea resorts, mountains and other interesting destinations for visitors,” he added. He also said that as cultural events help in enhancing the relations between countries, he hoped to arrange for a Thai cultural tour to visit Saudi Arabia, “ so that people here will have a chance to learn more about Thailand and what it has to offer”. The Asian Film Festival is organized with the objective of showing the traditions and cultures of each Asian country, and Consul General Sakolvari said that he hoped the event could be expanded. “Through this festival we are trying to give Saudis and expatriates, who are living in the Kingdom, a chance to see and feel the culture of our countries through films. The event is becoming more popular and we would like to make it available to more people and possibly to hold it maybe twice a year,” he said.
