Over a period of two weeks in November and December 2025, Anthony Bailey, HM Hon Consul-General of the Kingdom of Tonga in Portugal, participated in a series of diplomatic and cultural events hosted by the Ambassadors of Hungary, Romania, Palestine and Thailand. Collectively, these engagements reflected the vitality of Lisbon’s diplomatic community and provided opportunities to deepen friendship, cultural understanding and international cooperation.
The programme commenced on 20 November 2025 at the Igreja de Santa Isabel, where the Embassy of Hungary hosted the Concerto Solidário Santa Isabel and the unveiling of a commemorative plaque marking the 330th anniversary of the birth of Carlos Mardel, the Hungarian-born architect whose work played a central role in Lisbon’s reconstruction following the earthquake of 1755. The event was presided over by Ambassador Emília Fábián and featured soprano Anna Sušelj and baritone Árpád Sütő, accompanied by musicians of the Budafok Dohnányi Orchestra.
Mr Bailey recalled his long association with Hungary, noting in particular the visit of HM King George Tupou V to Budapest in May 2011, which formed part of broader efforts to strengthen bilateral relations. He further recalled being awarded the Officer’s Cross of the Order of Merit of Hungary in April 2013 by President János Áder (2012–2022). The Kingdom of Tonga and Hungary established diplomatic relations on 23 September 2011.
On 27 November 2025, Mr Bailey attended Romania’s National Day celebrations at the Teatro São Luiz, hosted by Ambassador Daniela Gîtman. The programme featured musical performances by artists of the Teatrul Muzical “Ambasadorii”, reflecting Romania’s rich cultural traditions. The Kingdom of Tonga and Romania established diplomatic relations on 13 April 2023.
On 1 December 2025, he participated in events marking the United Nations International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, hosted by Ambassador Rawan Sulaiman at the House of Alentejo, Lisbon. The occasion provided an opportunity for reflection on international solidarity and the humanitarian principles underlying the United Nations system.
The programme concluded on 5 December 2025 with the celebrations marking Thailand’s National Day, hosted by Ambassador Kanokwan Pengsuwan at the Hotel Tivoli Avenida Liberdade in Lisbon. The reception brought together members of the diplomatic corps, Portuguese officials and invited guests to mark both Thailand’s National Day and the Birthday Anniversary of HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX).
Mr Bailey reflected on his longstanding and close association with the Kingdom of Thailand, encompassing professional, cultural and diplomatic engagement over many years. He noted the tradition of reciprocal visits and exchanges between leaders of the Kingdom of Tonga and the Kingdom of Thailand, as well as the enduring and respectful relationship between the Tongan and Thai Royal Houses.
He further recalled the honours conferred upon him by the Thai Royal House, including the Silver Medal of the Coronation of HM King Maha Vajiralongkorn (Rama X) in 2019, and the Commemorative Medal marking the 60th Anniversary of the Accession of HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX). These distinctions were received with deep appreciation as symbols of friendship, respect and the strong ties linking Tonga and Thailand.
The Kingdom of Tonga and the Kingdom of Thailand established diplomatic relations on 11 June 1999, and the Consul-General underlined the importance of continued cultural dialogue and cooperation in strengthening bilateral relations.
