Bangkok, 19 May 2025 — Mr. Narapat Kaewthong, Assistant Minister of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE), on behalf of Dr. Chalermchai Sri-on, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, presided over the opening ceremony of the Regional Meeting on ASEAN Groundwater Resources Management at Swissotel Ratchada, Bangkok.

The event, held from 19–21 May 2025, brought together delegates from ASEAN member states, international organizations, and Thai water management agencies. Mr. Bhadol Thavornkitcharat, Director-General of the Department of Groundwater Resources, also participated in the meeting, which featured technical sessions and a study visit to Chachoengsao Province.

The objective of the meeting was to foster collaboration and share expertise on groundwater management technologies in the region, while preparing for future water and environmental crises. Outcomes from the meeting will be presented at the upcoming ASEAN Working Group on Water Resources Management (AWGWRM) meeting in Indonesia this June.

An exhibition showcasing projects and innovations from the Department of Groundwater Resources and partner organizations, including the Philippines, Malaysia, Japan’s Geological Survey (GSJ), the International Water Management Institute (IWMI), and Thailand’s Nuclear Technology Institute, was also held in parallel.

In his opening remarks, Mr. Narapat emphasized the critical role of groundwater, particularly in areas lacking surface water. He affirmed Thailand’s readiness to support ASEAN cooperation through its robust knowledge base, technological capabilities, and skilled personnel. He also welcomed best practices from other countries to be adapted within the Thai context.