On 3 September 2024, H.E. Mrs. Eksiri Pintaruchi, Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs, received a call from Members of the House of Councilors of Japan, namely Mr. Nakanishi Yusuke (Liberal Democratic Party), Ms. Ishigaki Noriko (Constitutional Democratic Party), and Mr. Kubota Tetsuya (Komeito Party). The group were in Bangkok on a research mission to assess Official Development Assistance (ODA) in Thailand. Discussions focused on assessment of ODA cooperation and the pathway forward, especially future collaboration for development, particularly in the context of trilateral partnerships within the region.

Both sides expressed deep mutual appreciation for the cordial and long-standing relationship between Thailand and Japan at all levels, particularly in development cooperation. The ongoing ODA projects encompass public transport infrastructure development, such as the Red and Purple Lines mass transit projects, as well as human resource development through the establishment of Thai KOSEN, in collaboration with the King Mongkut's Institute of Technology Ladkrabang (KMITL). Additionally, the potential application of science, technology, and innovation in various future development areas was discussed, including advancements in public health and programs for reskilling and upskilling the workforce to address the common challenges posed by an aging society.

The delegation reiterated their support for Thailand's application to join the OECD and readiness to cooperate on sustainable development initiatives. The Permanent Secretary underscored Japan’s contribution to development cooperation in the Mekong subregion. Both sides also recognised the importance of expanding regional development cooperation as well as to address transnational human security issues.