Philatelic Document - "Communes" Series - France-Thailand

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 Buddhist temple Wat Arun, 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. In fact, 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. Then, on August 15, 1856, the Treaty of Friendship, Commerce, and Navigation was signed, establishing formal diplomatic relations between Siam and France. With the issuance of these stamps, the two countries are commemorating the depth of a bond that is evident today through active political, economic, tourism, and cultural cooperation. And while they honor the memory of their historic relationship, Thailand and France are above all celebrating a modern, dynamic, and forward-looking partnership. Fabienne Azire

Document philatélique et cachet d’oblitération France : création Stéphane Humbert-Basset. Timbre tour Eiffel (héliogravure) : création Stéphane Humbert-Basset. Timbre Wat Arun (héliogravure) : création Thaneth Ponchaiwong. Texte : Fabienne Azire.