» Khon Kaen University Hosts Seminar on Thailand's Foreign Affairs from the Northeastern Public Perspective (141 Views)

 

On Thursday, March 6, 2025, Khon Kaen University, in collaboration with the Mekong Institute and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, organized a seminar titled "Thailand's Foreign Affairs: Perspectives from the Northeastern Public." The event brought together distinguished speakers and experts to exchange views and enhance understanding of Thailand's role in international affairs from a public perspective. The seminar was held at the Mekong Institute from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM, attracting many participants from government and private sector organizations involved in foreign affairs.

Morning Session Highlights

The seminar commenced with keynote speeches by Dr. Narongchai Akrasanee, President of the Khon Kaen University Council, who delivered a special address on "A Big Change is Coming", and Dr. Anuson Chinvanno, Director of the Institute of Foreign Affairs Studies, who spoke on "Thailand's Foreign Policy: Continuity and Change".

Following the keynote addresses, the morning session featured a panel discussion on "Thailand's Foreign Affairs: Public Perspectives". The panel included:

  • Mr. Suriyan Vijitlekha, Executive Director of the Mekong Institute
  • Mr. Khemchat Somjaiwong, Honorary President of the Khon Kaen Chamber of Commerce
  • Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jittiphat Poonkham, Associate Dean, Faculty of Political Science, Thammasat University
  • Asst. Prof. Prasert Vijitnoparat, Associate Dean for Research, Innovation, Academic Services, and Corporate Communication

Dr. Khrongkhwan Traithongyu, Senior Analyst at the Institute of Foreign Affairs Studies, moderated the session.

Afternoon Session Highlights

The afternoon session focused on "The Future of Thailand's Foreign Affairs: The Role of the Northeast in Regional Cooperation with Neighboring Countries". Panelists included:

  • Ms. Sangwannipa Phipopchaiyasit, Director of the Regional Investment Promotion Office 3, Board of Investment
  • Asst. Prof. Dr. Atcharawan Topark-ngarm, Assistant to the President for International Affairs, Khon Kaen University
  • Mr. Thawatchai Khotrawong, Representative of the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau for the Northeastern Region
  • Assoc. Prof. Dr. Phattharapong Makornwes, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University

Asst. Prof. Dr. Atcharawan Topark-ngarm, representing the President of Khon Kaen University, emphasized the university's role in driving international cooperation and regional development. She highlighted the university's commitment to enhancing the quality of education in the Northeast through student and faculty exchange programs with leading global universities, international curricula, and scholarship programs for students from Mekong subregion countries. Additionally, she underscored Khon Kaen University's efforts to align academic programs with future industry and economic demands, including Smart Agriculture, Digital Technology, and Health Sciences, to develop a competitive and capable workforce for the global stage.

Seminar Outcomes

The seminar successfully provided a platform for public discourse on Thailand's role in international affairs. It allowed stakeholders in the Northeast to share their insights and contribute to policy development and regional cooperation within the Mekong subregion. The event saw active participation from representatives across multiple sectors, fostering collaboration and laying the groundwork for Thailand's future foreign policy direction.

 

 

The seminar successfully provided a platform for public discourse on Thailand's role in international affairs. It allowed stakeholders in the Northeast to share their insights and contribute to policy development and regional cooperation within the Mekong subregion. The event saw active participation from representatives across multiple sectors, fostering collaboration and laying the groundwork for Thailand's future foreign policy direction.

Report and Photos by Jorn Songsom

 

 

 

 

 

 


Poster : Jac Songserm | 13 มีนาคม 68