UN recognises princess' work

Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn will be named Goodwill Ambassador again by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco) for her contributions to the empowerment of minority children and the preservation of their intangible heritage.

Atthapol Sangkhawasi, permanent secretary of the Education Ministry, said the princess was first appointed Goodwill Ambassador in March 2005 by then Unesco director Sheldon Shaeffer, who recognised her decades-long work in promoting the welfare of children from ethnic and minority groups, particularly those living in remote areas.

Mr Atthapol said the princess' Goodwill Ambassador status ended in July, but Unesco still acknowledged her work in education development in remote areas. The UN agency will, therefore, continue to honour the princess as its ambassador for another two years, he said.

The Bureau of International Cooperation, as a member of National Commissions for Unesco, has sent a letter of appointment to the princess' private secretary, he said.