On 31 July 2024, Mr. Paisan Rupanichkij, Deputy Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs, delivered an opening remarks at the Mekong Forum 2024 in the theme of Breaking Through New Horizons; Digitalisation, Innovation and Technology in the GMS during 31 July – 1 August 2024 at Pullman Khon Kaen Raja Orchid Hotel, Khon Kaen. Also Mrs. Arunee Hiam, Deputy Director-General of Thailand International Cooperation Agency (TICA), Ministry of Foreign Affairs presented at the Forum.

The Deputy Permanent Secretary highlighted both the opportunities and challenges faced by the Mekong Sub-region in its socio-economic development, particularly in the area of digital, innovation, and technology.  He reiterated Thailand’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with countries in the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) and the Mekong Institute (MI) in sectors of mutual interest to ensure an inclusive and interconnected Mekong Sub-region. In this regard, Deputy Permanent Secretary visited MI, located in Khon Kaen, to be briefed on MI’s missions related to human resource development of the Mekong Sub-region.  

The Mekong Forum is annually organized by MI where representatives from countries in the Mekong Sub-region, development partners, academics, and NGOs were gathered together to explore the way towards sustainable development in the Mekong sub-region.