THAI Minister of Culture launches 2009 Cannes Festival Booth
Thai Minister of Culture: Teera Slukpetch
ThailandThe 62nd Cannes Film Festival Village International - Pantiero was livened up on Saturday, May 16th, by the visit of Thailand's recently-nominated Minister of Culture Mr. Teera Slukpetch, accompanied by Deputies from the Ministry and by two Thai traditional musicians playing antique stringed instruments, to deliver a welcoming message at the Thai Pavillion overlooking the Beach.
Mr. Teera Slukpetch,
has expressed: ‘‘A country’s culture is the spirit of that country.’’ ANUSORN SAKSEREE.
and has already signed two important papers: first the subsidiary law that will finally activate the long-hibernated film rating system, and second, the approval of a new public organisation, also long in the making, that will function as the face-lifted National Film Archive.
Before hosting a tasty Thai buffet to evidently famished festival-accredited guests who munched appreciatively on the exotic fried noodles and peanut sauce among other finger-foods, he delivered the following welcome:
"Distinguished guests, professionals and Press,
On behalf of the Royal Thai Government, I am delighted to welcome you today to the Pavillion of Thailand that has been situated right here for three continuous years to promote the Thai enrichment of Arts, Culture and the beautiful scenery of Thai cinema and film locations and facilities to the world markets, festivals and audiences.
During the past three years of promoting the Thai Film Industries, and services in many well-known film festivals, Thailand has been well-recognized by many countries for the good production, techniques, services and skilfull human resources of international standard, attested to by the increasing number of overseas production houses involved in coproductions and shooting in Thailand. By this time, I can say that Thailand is ready to become the "Entertainment Hub of Asia."
At this festival, I have the pleasure of informing you all, that one of our world-renowned directors, Mr. Pen-ek Rattanareung is officially selected for "Un Certain Regard" competition with his film "NYMPH", also known in Thai as "Nang-Mai". Besides Mr. Pen-ek's successful production, we also have many other films here, introduced in the Festival such as "Where's the Miracle that Happens", "Kan-Kluy2," "Tsunami" , "Meat Grinder", "Phobia 2", "Power Kids", "Best of Times", "Dear Galileo" and different varieties of films to serve worldwide demand.
In addition, there will be the "Comedy Film Festival" coming up this June, in Bangkok for its first edition. Similarily to the "Bangkok International Film Festival 2009", and the "Thailand Entertainment Expo" which will be organized at the same time around next September. We hope that all of you won't miss an opportunity to meet up again at our events.
Now it is time for our reception party and I would like to invite you all to enjoy our Thai foods accompanied with friends in film industries around the world. Thank you."
Teera Slukpetch,
Minister of Culture of Thailand
Cannes, May 16th, 2009
