Bangkok: The Minister of Tourism revealed that the Prime Minister sent his encouragement to Thai athletes to achieve victory at the 20th Asian Games. Mr. Surasak Panjaroenvorakul, Minister of Tourism and Sports, was assigned by the Prime Minister to deliver a motivational speech to the National Olympic Committee of Thailand under Royal Patronage, officials, and athletes before their departure to the 20th Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan, from September 19th to October 4th, 2026. He stated that the Thai government and people congratulate all Thai athletes on their qualification to represent Thailand at the Asian Games. This success is a result of their diligence, discipline, dedication to training, and exemplary conduct. The government's policy focuses on promoting exercise and sports to enhance the health and well-being of the entire population, ensuring Thailand possesses strong human resources-physically, mentally, and intellectually-to lead the country towards further progress.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Surasak stated that in every sporting event, athletes must realize that beyond representing the country in the competition, they also have the important duty of acting as cultural ambassadors of Thailand, spreading Thai customs, traditions, culture, and identity to the international community. While victory is the primary goal for all athletes and the Thai people, it must be based on sportsmanship, respecting the rules, and honoring opponents. One must know how to accept defeat and victory, congratulate the winners, and encourage the losers. Whether Thai or non-Thai athletes, they must always remember that competitions are for building friendships, not creating enemies. He wished them a safe journey, both to and from their destination.
'I am giving this speech today as a representative, as instructed by the Prime Minister, since he cannot attend due to important duties in Norway and will return on September 11th. The Prime Minister has always emphasized that you are all important individuals, representing the face and prestige of the country. He personally sends his encouragement for the athletes to continue achieving success,' said Mr. Surasak.