On 11 February 2020, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand and the Royal Thai Embassy in Cambodia organised an event entitled “Melodies of Friendship: A Concert by the Jazz Ensemble of the Thailand Philharmonic Orchestra, to Commemorate the 70th Anniversary of the Establishment of Thailand – Cambodia Diplomatic Relations” at Chaktomuk Hall, Phnom Penh, Kingdom of Cambodia.

 

On this occasion, His Majesty Preah Bat Samdech Preah Boromneath Norodom Sihamoni, King of Cambodia, and the members of the Royal Family of Cambodia, graciously accepted the Embassy’s humble invitation to attend the event. The concert was also attended by H.E. Mr. Chaisiri Anamarn, Advisor to the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, H.E. Dr. Phoeurng Sackona, Minister of Culture and Fine Arts of Cambodia, H.E. Mrs. Eat Sophea, Secretary of State, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Cambodia, Diplomatic Corps, and the Thai private sector in Cambodia as well as students from Royal University of Phnom Penh, Royal University of Fine Arts and Phnom Penh International Institute of Arts.

 

The Jazz Ensemble of the Thailand Philharmonic Orchestra, College of Music, Mahidol University performed the Royal Compositions of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great of Thailand and Preah Bat Samdech Preah Norodom Sihanouk of Cambodia, contemporary jazz tunes and best-known Thai and Khmer songs. Royal compositions included “Oh I say”, “Sweet Words”, “H.M. Blues”, “Blue Days”, “Monica” and “La Forêt Enchantée”. The audience were deeply impressed by an exceptional rendition of the musical talent of the highly revered Kings of both Kingdoms.

 

The concert reflected the existing bonds of friendship, especially at people-to-people level, between Thailand and Cambodia. The concert is part of series of events to commemorate the 70th Anniversary of the Establishment of Thailand - Cambodia Diplomatic Relations which will be held throughout this year.