On Sunday, 22 June 2025, the Royal Thai Embassy in Oslo, in collaboration with the Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, hosted a special Walk and Run Charity event in celebration of the 120th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and Norway. The event featured both 5- and 10-kilometre routes through central Oslo and attracted over 100 participants, including members of the Thai community and Norwegian friends.

 

The event commenced at the Royal Thai Embassy, where Her Excellency Ambassador Nitivadee Manitkul delivered opening remarks. In her speech, Ambassador Nitivadee highlighted the historical significance of 2025, marking 120 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1905 and recalling King Rama V’s historic visit to Norway in 1907.

 

Ambassador Nitivadee noted that this was the first Walk and Run Charity event ever organized by Thai embassies worldwide and expressed pride in launching this inaugural initiative in Oslo. She announced that all proceeds from registration fees would be donated to the Fund for the Celebration of the 120th Anniversary of Thai-Norwegian Diplomatic Relations under Siriraj Hospital. The fund will support underprivileged patients in Thailand and continue to serve for their treatment after being admitted to the hospital.

 

Also presiding over the event was Prof. Dr. Apichart Asavamongkolkul, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at Siriraj Hospital. Dr. Apichart expressed his deepest gratitude to His Majesty King Rama V, who initiated the founding of Siriraj Hospital—the first public hospital in Thailand. He emphasized the hospital's commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation and noted the event marked the first time Siriraj Hospital had co-hosted a charity event outside Thailand.

 

Her Excellency Mrs. Astrid Emilie Helle, Ambassador of Norway to Thailand, also honored the event with her presence.

Participants enjoyed a scenic route through Oslo, passing iconic landmarks such as Vigeland Park, Oslo City Hall, the Royal Palace, and Akershus Fortress. Upon completing the course, all runners received specially designed commemorative medals from the Royal Thai Embassy.

The event concluded with a lively lucky draw, with prizes generously sponsored by Thai Airways PLC, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (Stockholm Office), and SCG Company.

 

The Royal Thai Embassy in Oslo extends our heartfelt thanks to all participants and donors who contributed to this meaningful celebration of friendship and shared values between Thailand and Norway.