The International Islamic Federation of Student Organizations (IIFSO) welcomed H.E. Dr. Apirat Sugondhabirom, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand to Türkiye, at its headquarters in Istanbul on Tuesday, May 13, 2025.
The visit comes as part of IIFSO’s efforts to enhance collaboration with international institutions and diplomatic missions. IIFSO is committed to building strong partnerships with global youth organizations and governmental bodies around the world.
The meeting was attended by several IIFSO officials, including Eslam El-Sherbiny, Vice-President of the International Students in Turkey, Abdulrahman Syed from the Training Department, and Abdullah Zubair, from the Training Department, and the President of the Pakistani Students Union in Turkey.
Discussions during the meeting focused on expanding educational opportunities for Thai students in Turkey and promoting cultural exchange among youth from diverse backgrounds. The ambassador was also introduced to IIFSO’s broad range of initiatives, which include organizing conferences, publishing books, conducting training programs, and fostering coordination among international youth organizations.
Key areas of discussion included:
•Developing training programs for international students in leadership and cultural exchange.
•Supporting Turkish language instruction for new Thai students in Turkey.
•Exploring opportunities for cooperation in youth diplomacy and development through joint training initiatives.
•Strengthening collaboration between IIFSO and Thai ministries and youth organizations. The ambassador expressed Thailand’s readiness to host international youth events, including a regional conference for the Asian zone.
•Promoting Thai cultural heritage on global platforms.
•Supporting humanitarian causes and fostering global solidarity.
During the conversation, Ambassador Sugandhaphrom reaffirmed Thailand’s unwavering support for the rights of the Palestinian people and their pursuit of an independent state. He also condemned the ongoing humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza and stressed the importance of standing in solidarity with oppressed communities worldwide.
In response, IIFSO expressed deep appreciation for Thailand’s continued support and commended the shared human values upheld by both sides, including peace, justice, and youth empowerment. The Federation welcomed the ambassador, H.E. Mr. Apirat’s openness to collaboration and his willingness to engage in joint programs focused on youth training and language education.
This visit marks a significant step toward strengthening ties between IIFSO and the Kingdom of Thailand. Both parties concluded the meeting by affirming the importance of continued engagement and cooperation in the areas of youth leadership, cultural initiatives, humanitarian projects, youth empowerment, intercultural dialogue, and global solidarity.
