The Italian embassy’s Facebook page posted this video of four persons, three of them representing this group of Italian youths, bowing and apologising to the Thai people and Thailand for the incident.
A male youth said that they were representing the Italian group seen in the video that went viral yesterday and that they made this video today to apologise to the Thai people and Thai culture.
“We wanted to shoot this video yesterday, but we were worried and scared, and so we postponed this video. It was a wrong decision, and we wanted to ask forgiveness for our behaviour to Thai people and the country,” he said.
A female representative said, “I am personally deeply sorry for what has happened. I perfectly know that money can’t buy respect and I am really sorry.”
Another male representative said, “I apologise for my own behaviour and the behaviour of all of us.”
A woman who was with them said, “We do not accept this behaviour. The students involved will return to Italy as soon as possible, and we will again teach our group to respect Thai culture. Thank you for your hospitality, and we ask for your forgiveness.”
Italian tour company issues urgent clarification
TravellingFox, an Italian organiser of the study trips, issued a statement via its Facebook page, TravellingFox Estate INPSieme, apologising for the incident and affirmed that the behaviour depicted in the video does not reflect the values and principles the company has upheld and promoted for many years.
The statement identified the group involved as male and female students.
Many of the participants, numerous minors, were on a study tour organised to provide opportunities to learn new cultures, experience international environments, and cultivate respect and openness towards the host country.
As can happen with groups of young people, the enthusiasm of the moment can sometimes lead to excessive liveliness in public spaces. This does not however justify inappropriate gestures or behaviour, which do not represent the values of the Tour Operator nor those of the vast majority of the participants.
The company also stated that over the past 20 years, it has brought thousands of students and tourists to Thailand, a country with which the company has a deep connection and admiration for its natural beauty, diverse culture, and the hospitality of the Thai people.
Italian influencer apologises to Thais on behalf of compatriots
A well-known Italian influencer, who deeply loves Thailand and has a Thai wife, posted an apology on his Facebook “Edo Eats Wrong” apologising to Thais for this incident, emphasising that most people respect culture.
“When you travel to another country, you’re not just representing yourself, for better or worse, you’re also representing your country.
“Thailand welcomed me with kindness, gave me opportunities, and made me feel at home. That’s why I believe the least I can do is respect its rules, culture, and people.
“Being a tourist doesn’t mean you can do whatever you want. If someone politely asks you to lower your voice, just say ‘sorry’ and move on.
“I hope this episode doesn’t make Thais think that all Italians are like this, because most of us know what it means to be respectful.
“Thank you, Thailand, for the hospitality you offer us every day.”
CAPTION:
This and Front Page: A screen grab image of three youths and a woman apologising to the Thai people. Credit – Amarin
Video shared on Italian embassy’s Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/reel/1689789355469720
Earlier report:
Italian embassy Facebook page flooded with comments after Skytrain fracas
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