Message from the Chief Representative

Development collaboration between Japan and Thailand began almost 70 years ago, when 21 Thai trainees went to Japan under an Official Development Assistance Program in 1954.

Our projects have resulted in a wide range of infrastructure improvements including the Eastern Seaboard development, several bridges across the Chao Phraya River, Suvarnabhumi International Airport, urban high speed and commuter rail lines, water supply, and sewerage facilities in Bangkok and the provinces. We have also supported higher education in engineering, for example at King Mongkut's Institute of Technology, and we continue to dispatch qualified volunteers for many kinds of cooperation.

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These projects, and other activities including cooperation in water and air quality and climate change measures, have greatly contributed to the enrichment of the lives of Thai people, at the same time deepening their ties with Japan.

This is my second time to be stationed in Thailand. The first, from 2004 to 2007, I saw the opening of the MRT subway and Suvarnabhumi airport. Back then, I strongly felt the vitality and enthusiasm of a growing nation. I am very happy that those feelings have not changed over time, notwithstanding several significant changes in economic and social conditions. Thailand's GDP per capita it has almost doubled to $8,000 since 2007.

Thailand is now responding to new issues which include: overcoming a shortage of highly skilled human resources to drive economic development, improving transportation infrastructure to alleviate traffic congestion, reducing vulnerability to flood damage, eliminating the income gap between Bangkok and rural areas, and supporting Thailand's aging society.

I will continue JICA's efforts to support Thailand, a geopolitically important node in the Mekong region, with our contribution to this wonderful society that never ceases to smile, while always being aware of and responsive to Thailand's economic and cultural priorities.

SUZUKI Kazuya
Chief Representative, JICA Thailand Office