Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra of Thailand has arrived in Harbin, China, to attend the opening ceremony of the 9th Asian Winter Games. This visit is part of her four-day official trip to China, which began on February 5, 2025.
Diplomatic Engagements
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
Before reaching Harbin, Paetongtarn engaged in high-level meetings in Beijing. She met with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Premier Li Qiang, and Chairman Zhao Leji of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress. These discussions aimed to enhance the Thailand-China Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership.
Asian Winter Games
A Spectacular Opening
The opening ceremony of the 9th Asian Winter Games is scheduled for Friday, February 7, 2025, at 20:00 local time. The event will take place at two venues: the main venue at the Harbin International Conference, Exhibition and Sports Centre and a sub-venue at the Harbin Ice and Snow World. This innovative approach promises to deliver an immersive experience for global audiences.
Cultural Showcase
Blending Tradition and Technology
The ceremony, themed “Dream of Winter, Love among Asia,” will feature a blend of Harbin’s local intangible cultural heritage and modern technology. Audiences can expect to see iconic Harbin landmarks woven into the ceremony, alongside advanced technologies like augmented reality and ultra-high-definition immersive screens.
International Participation
Record-Breaking Attendance
This edition of the Asian Winter Games has attracted over 1,200 athletes from 34 countries and regions across Asia, making it the largest in terms of participating delegations and athletes. The event marks Harbin’s second time hosting the Games, with the first being 29 years ago.
Diplomatic Significance
Golden Jubilee Celebration
Paetongtarn’s visit to China holds special significance as it launches the Golden Jubilee year of Thailand-China friendship, celebrating 50 years of diplomatic relations. This visit is expected to deepen cooperation and mutual understanding between the two nations, focusing on promoting stability, prosperity, and sustainability.
