Prime Minister Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha has welcomed Thailand’s athletes at Government House ahead of their participation in the 2023 SEA Games, set to take place in Cambodia from May 5-17. During his meeting with the athletes, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of solely focusing on sports and not mixing it with politics.
Furthermore, Gen Prayut reminded the athletes not to criticize any country’s internal affairs during their stay in Cambodia, emphasizing the need to create good relations, love, and unity with Thailand’s neighboring nations. Thailand’s decision not to participate in the Kun Khmer sport, which Cambodia has included in the SEA Games, has caused some tension between the two countries. However, the Prime Minister encouraged all Thai athletes to focus on representing their country and enjoying their time competing fairly against their opponents.
The 32nd SEA Games will feature 37 sports and 608 gold medals, with Thailand aiming to bring home approximately 112 of them. The Thai team includes Olympic taekwondo champion Panipak Wongpattanakit and track and field stars Puripol Boonson and Joshua Atkinson. This will be the first SEA Games held on Cambodian soil since the tournament’s inception in 1959.
The SEA Games serve as a platform for Southeast Asian countries to come together and celebrate their shared love for sports. Thailand’s participation in the tournament, along with their commitment to competing fairly and upholding good relations with neighboring nations, reflects the country’s dedication to fostering strong regional ties and promoting unity and cooperation.
