A high-level diplomatic delegation from Southeast Asia will visit Wales next week to strengthen economic and cultural ties. The two-day visit, hosted by the Consular Association in Wales with support from the Welsh Government, will bring together ambassadors, high commissioners and senior diplomatic representatives from Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and Timor-Leste.
Existing Consular Connections
Wales already has established consular connections with Southeast Asia through three honorary consuls: Theo Coliandris, representing Thailand; David Bentley Miller, representing the Philippines; and Dame Heather Stevens, representing Timor-Leste.
The visit comes at a time of renewed momentum for international diplomacy in Wales, with the number of countries represented through the consular network approaching 30 and a further five honorary consular appointments understood to be under consideration.
Opportunity for Deeper Relationships
For the Consular Association in Wales, the gathering represents an opportunity to deepen established relationships, encourage new connections and reinforce Wales's position as a country with a distinct international identity and an increasingly visible presence on the diplomatic stage.
President of the Consular Association in Wales and honorary consul of Slovakia Nigel Payne said: "Wales has always looked beyond its borders. Our history, our industries, our universities and our communities have been shaped by relationships with countries across the world, and international diplomacy remains an important part of that story."
"Welcoming such a distinguished delegation to Cardiff is a reflection of the relationships we have worked to develop and the opportunities that lie ahead. These connections extend well beyond formal diplomatic engagement, encompassing business, trade, education, culture and the many international communities who contribute so much to Welsh life," he added.
Future Diplomatic Growth
Members of the Consular Association in Wales include longstanding honorary consuls and representatives of countries with established connections to Wales. The association is looking to build relationships with diplomatic missions based in London and encourage further appointments across Wales.
Mr Payne, who has represented Slovakia for 21 years and became president of the association in April 2025, has made raising the visibility of Wales's diplomatic community a central priority of his presidency. He said: "Honorary consuls have been woven into the fabric of Welsh life for generations, often working quietly behind the scenes to build relationships, support communities and open doors. There is now a real opportunity to bring greater visibility to that work and demonstrate the value of a strong diplomatic presence in Wales."
"Whether through international commerce, academic partnerships, cultural exchange or the shared experience of major sporting occasions, diplomacy takes many forms. Wales has an enormous amount to offer, and our ambition is to ensure that its international relationships continue to grow in both strength and significance," he concluded.
