A Thai otolaryngologist who has spent more than 30 years helping patients across 10 countries has been chosen as the recipient of Thailand’s first-ever Public Diplomacy Award.
Dr. Soontorn Antarasena of the Department of Otolaryngology, Rajvithi Hospital, founded a group of volunteer doctors that has been helping treat ear diseases patients both in Thailand and neighbouring countries.
Over the past 30 years, Dr. Soontorn and his team have traveled around the world, helping more than 70,000 patients across 10 countries, including Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Myanmar, China, India, Kenya, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Timor-Leste.
The Public Diplomacy Award was established by the Foreign Ministry and Thailand Foundation to honor individuals, groups, or organizations who have contributed significant works in promoting goodwill and friendship between Thailand and the rest of the world, on a people-to-people level.
Speaking at a ceremony to honor Dr Soontorn at the Foreign Ministry on Thursday night, Foreign Minister Don Pramudwinai said the purpose of the award is to recognize and support the works of honored recipients who should inspire others to follow in their footsteps.
He said through his works, Dr. Soontorn has created long-lasting bonds and meaningful friendships that transcend borders.
