Southeast Asia Information Port News (www.dnyxxg.com) – On January 15, 2026, His Excellency Sihasak Puangteko, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, held talks with Ms. Isa Vijayanti Edirisinghe, Ambassador of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka to Thailand. The talks focused on exchanging views and raising concerns regarding the welfare of two Thai elephants in Sri Lanka.
Minister Puangteko emphasized that Thai elephants are a precious symbol of the long-standing friendly relations between Thailand and Sri Lanka, carrying profound emotional significance. The welfare of the two elephants is deeply related to the vital interests of the Thai people. He pointed out that animal welfare is an important issue of universal concern in the international community and earnestly requested Sri Lanka to attach great importance to this matter. He proposed, in light of Thailand's original intention in gifting the elephants as a token of friendship, that Phlai Pratoopha be retired, and that the duties of the other elephant, Srinarong, be reduced to effectively guarantee their right to survival.
After consultations, both sides reached an agreement to sign a Memorandum of Understanding to safeguard the welfare of the two Thai elephants in accordance with international standards. The memorandum will clearly establish a cooperation mechanism between relevant institutions of the two countries, form a joint team of experts and veterinarians, regularly check the health status of elephants and release objective information to the public, comprehensively strengthening the defense line for elephant welfare. Ambassador Edirisinghe informed the Thai side that Sri Lanka plans to officially retire "Palatupa" after the Esala Perahera procession in 2027. She also reiterated that these two Thai elephants are considered sacred beings in Sri Lanka and are deeply respected and loved by the local people.
During the talks, Foreign Minister Puangteko also expressed his sincere condolences to Sri Lanka regarding the severe floods that occurred in Sri Lanka in December 2025. (End)
