MNRE Strengthens Thailand–China Polar Research Ties at “Xue Long 2 and Beyond” International Seminar

On May 22, 2025, at 9:00 AM, Mr. Prasert Sirinapaporn, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE), representing the Permanent Secretary, participated in the opening ceremony of the international seminar titled “Xue Long 2 and Beyond: Advancing Polar Research and Thailand-China Cooperation in a Changing Climate.”

The seminar marked the special visit of China's icebreaker vessel Xue Long 2 to Thailand, held in honor of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn’s 70th birthday and in celebration of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and the People’s Republic of China.

Distinguished attendees included Associate Professor Dr. Palanee Amranand, Vice President of Chulalongkorn University; Mr. Sun Shuxian, Vice Minister of China’s Ministry of Natural Resources; Professor Dr. Pairat Tachayapong, Secretary-General of the Information Technology Foundation under the initiative of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn; Deputy Director-General of the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources; representatives from the Chinese Embassy in Thailand; and members of the public. The event took place at the 7th-floor conference hall of Chamchuri 10 Building, Chulalongkorn University.

The seminar was co-hosted by Chulalongkorn University, the Polar Science Committee of Thailand (PSCT), and the Polar Research Institute of China (PRIC). It aimed to foster knowledge exchange in polar sciences, climate change, and strategies for international cooperation between tropical and polar nations. This initiative marks a significant step in strengthening scientific and environmental collaboration between Thailand and China amidst the escalating global climate crisis.

Key activities included special lectures by leading Thai and Chinese scientists on research missions aboard Xue Long 2, panel discussions on astrophysics, marine biodiversity, and climate change impacts, as well as expert forums and interactive sessions encouraging youth and public participation in polar science through creative and sustainable engagement.