(February 19, 2025) – In a key move, Dr. John (Surachit Phongsinghvithya), President of the Bangkok Metropolitan Council, led a group to Honolulu, Hawaii, where they met Mr. Tommy Waters, Chairman and Presiding Officer for District IV of the Honolulu City Council. This is the first time in 10 years that Bangkok has taken steps to restart a sister-city council partnership, opening the door for closer work between the two cities.
“Today, our goal is to bring new ideas and build a strong connection that benefits both our cities and countries,” said Dr. John. “We are thankful that the Honolulu City Council sees this as a great chance to work together. Our plans include cultural exchanges and using Bangkok’s—and Thailand’s—influence to create new economic opportunities. After today’s meeting, the Honolulu team will visit Bangkok this December to sign an MOU to officially set up our sister-council partnership. Until then, both cities will work together to plan how we can best cooperate.”
During the talks, the Honolulu team wanted to learn more about the practical role of the Bangkok Metropolitan Council—from planning the city and improving everyday life to managing the budget and solving local problems. Impressed by Bangkok’s success, they proposed signing an MOU—the first such agreement in over 10 years—to share ideas and work more closely together.
Dr. John also described his visit to Wat Thai Hawaii, where he paid his respects to Phra Khru Phutthamongkol Vites, the temple’s abbot and a key figure for Thai Buddhists in the area. He learned that the temple faces real issues, such as problems with the water supply and the management of its grounds, which stop the monks from carrying out their duties fully.
“After hearing about these issues, the Honolulu City Council Chairman quickly showed his concern and promised to take action. If the problems are mostly about paperwork, dedicated staff will be assigned to fix issues that have been around for more than three years,” Dr. John said.
By reviving this long-dormant sister-city relationship, both councils are setting the stage for a future built on clear, practical cooperation and mutual support.
