The 2nd Russian–Thai Investment Forum 2026 Concludes in Bangkok with Three Successful Cultural and Sporting Events
The 2nd Russian–Thai Investment Forum (RTIF2026) concluded in Bangkok on 31 October, bringing together business leaders, government representatives, and participants from Russia and Thailand for three days of business discussions, cultural exchange, and sporting activities.
Alongside its business programme, the Forum featured three successful cultural and sporting events: the MIR Russian–Thai Culture Fest, Russia–Thailand on Ice and the Bangkok Badminton Friendship Cup 2026. Together, these events highlighted the importance of cultural diplomacy and sports in strengthening people-to-people connections and fostering closer relations between Russia and Thailand.
A Celebration of Friendship and Culture: MIR Russian–Thai Culture Fest
On 30–31 October, the MIR Russian–Thai Culture Fest took place at Lumphini Park in the heart of Bangkok, with the support of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA). The official opening ceremony was attended by Mr. Ivan Demchenko, Chairman of the Russian–Thai Business Council (RTBC); H.E. Mr. Mongkol Surasajja, President of the Senate; and Dr. Lertlak Leelaruangsang, Deputy Permanent Secretary of Bangkok Metropolitan Administration.
Over two days, the festival welcomed more than 2,000 visitors of different nationalities and age groups to a vibrant programme celebrating Russian and Thai culture, creativity, and culinary traditions. The festival grounds featured food stalls, family and children’s activities, an open-air cinema, art installations, an exhibition of Russian brands, and performances on the main concert stage.
The MIR Russian–Thai Culture Fest provided a welcoming space for visitors to experience the cultures of both countries and celebrate their longstanding friendship, in anticipation of the 130th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Russia and Thailand in 2027.
The First Sporting Event: Russia–Thailand on Ice – Where Russian–Thai Friendship Comes to Life on the Ice
The sports programme began on 29 October with Russia–Thailand on Ice, held at the IWIS International Training Center in Bangkok with the support of the Red Machine Academy and other leading organizations like Warrix Sport Public Company Limited and CPF.
The event featured spectacular figure skating performances, a friendly ice hockey match between Russian and Thai players, and a masterclass for young Thai athletes aged 6–10 years old. The masterclass was led by Roman Rotenberg, First Vice President of the Russian Ice Hockey Federation, head coach of Russia 25, and founder of the Red Machine Academy.
The highlight of the sporting programme was a friendly 3-on-3 ice hockey match between the Red Machine Academy team, which competes in the Russian Hockey League, and a Thai team comprising players from different age groups. The match concluded with a 15–0 victory for the Russian team.
Beyond the result, the match provided an opportunity for players to gain international experience, exchange sporting practices, and establish new connections. It also demonstrated how sport can serve as a universal language, bringing together people from different countries and cultures.
And the Final Sporting Event to Wrap Up the Cultural Ties: Bangkok Badminton Friendship Cup 2026
The sporting programme concluded on 31 October with the Bangkok Badminton Friendship Cup 2026, held with the main support of the Russian Export Centre (REC).
The tournament brought together athletes representing the National Badminton Federation of Russia and the Badminton Association of Thailand (BAT), marking an important milestone in bilateral sporting cooperation. For the first time, professional badminton players from the two countries competed in a Russian–Thai friendly match.
Participants of the 2nd Russian–Thai Investment Forum also had the opportunity to attend the tournament and take part in the amateur league, joining athletes and sports enthusiasts in a spirit of friendship and mutual respect.
The event demonstrated the potential of badminton to create new opportunities for sporting cooperation, encourage professional exchange, and strengthen connections between the Russian and Thai communities.
Building Stronger Connections Beyond Business
The successful completion of these three cultural and sporting events marked an important conclusion to the 2nd Russian–Thai Investment Forum 2026.
While the Forum’s business programme focused on investment opportunities, economic cooperation, and the development of bilateral partnerships, its cultural and sporting activities underscored the importance of people-to-people engagement in building lasting relationships between the two nations.
Through ice hockey, badminton, cultural exhibitions, gastronomy, and artistic performances, the Forum created opportunities for Russian and Thai participants to connect beyond the business environment, discover each other’s traditions, and establish new avenues for cooperation.
The Russian–Thai Business Council extends its appreciation to all partners, participants, athletes, organisers, and supporters who contributed to the success of the Forum and its accompanying events.