The Thai kingdom has found a way to assist Israel in advancing peace in the region: Thai boxing
In a highly irregular step, Thailand has dispatched a Muay Thai diplomatic envoy - an international expert on Thai boxing - to Israel for a three-month period to familiarize Israelis with the Thai national sport.
It's not that the Thai people wish to make Israelis more aggressive, on the contrary, the Thai ambassador to Israel Kasivat Paruggamanont, said: "I am certain that Thai boxing will serve to promote peace in the region, because this sport can facilitate in lowering tensions between nations. Thai boxing will lower the level of violence on the street, serve as a source of self empowerment, enhance fitness and help vent tensions and aggression through a sporting activity."
The Thai boxing industry is currently undergoing a process of recognition as an Olympic sport, and Israel also has a local branch with a professional league.
The international expert who arrived in Israel under the auspices of the Thai kingdom is Coach Master Jadet. During the three-month period he is set to spend in Israel he will train Israeli competitors and athletes and hold seminars and workshops related to the sport. At the same time several events will be opened to the public throughout parks and community centers.
"The aggressive image of Thai boxing is misguided," says Jadat, "it's important to train properly."
The connection between Jadat and Israel was created while training Israeli athlete Roi Heizler in Las Vegas, who won the Muay Thai championship in the US and is now promoting the sport in Israel.
On Wednesday Jadat held an open day at the Beit Elazari Moshav near Rehovot. The Thai ambassador to Israel also joined the training session, donned a boxing glove and demonstrated some surprising moves. "I call on all Israelis from all walks of life to come and get a taste of this traditional sport," said the ambassador.
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