170 Years of Diplomatic Relations Between France and Thailand – The Eiffel Tower and Wat Arun
On August 31, 2026, France and Thailand will issue two joint stamps celebrating 170 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries, featuring the iconic symbols of the Eiffel Tower in Paris and the Wat Arun Buddhist temple in Bangkok.
What could be more symbolic to celebrate 170 years of official diplomatic relations between Thailand and France than a joint stamp issue? The silhouette of the Wat Arun Buddhist temple, an emblem of Bangkok, and that of the Eiffel Tower, forever associated with Paris, seem to watch over the Franco-Thai friendship that has endured through the centuries. Indeed, the first exchanges between the kingdoms of Siam and France date back to the late 17th century, during the reigns of King Narai and Louis XIV. It was on August 15, 1856, that the Treaty of Amity, Commerce, and Navigation was signed, establishing formal diplomatic relations between Siam and France. With the issuance of these stamps, the two countries commemorate the depth of a bond that is manifested today through active political, economic, tourism, and cultural cooperation. And while they cherish the memory of their historical relationship, Thailand and France are above all celebrating a modern, dynamic, and forward-looking partnership.
