In an effort to further strengthen collaboration between their scientific communities, the United States and the Kingdom of Thailand convened in Bangkok for the third Joint Committee Meeting (JCM) on science and technology.
The meeting, held on June 22, 2023, aimed to foster a robust partnership in scientific research and innovation.
Prominent Figures Leading the Discussion
Acting Assistant Secretary Jennifer R. Littlejohn and Deputy Permanent Secretary Pasit Lorterapong co-chaired the meeting.
Acting Assistant Secretary Jennifer R. Littlejohn from the Bureau of Oceans, and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs (OES) led the U.S. delegation, while Associate Professor Pasit Lorterapong, Ph.D., Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Thailand Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Innovation (MHESI), represented Thailand.
Applauding the longstanding diplomatic engagement of 190 years between the two countries, Acting Assistant Secretary Littlejohn highlighted the mutual benefits of U.S.-Thailand collaboration in the field of science and technology.
Exploring Key Priorities: A Focus on Science and Technology Policy
Discussion centered around crucial science and technology policy areas for both nations.
The JCM delved into various science and technology policy and research priorities, including energy and climate change mitigation, infectious and non-infectious diseases, biodiversity, agriculture, water, climate change adaptation, STEM education and entrepreneurship, the innovation pipeline, and environmental conservation.
These key areas of focus aim to benefit people and economies in both the United States and Thailand.
A Strong Coalition of Experts
Diverse representation from esteemed organizations formed the U.S. and Thai delegations.
U.S. Delegation:
- Department of Energy (DOE)
- National Science Foundation (NSF)
- U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)
- Smithsonian Institution
- Center for Disease Control (CDC)
- U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
- U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA)
- U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID)
- U.S. Department of State
Thai Delegation:
- National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA)
- Thailand Institute of Scientific and Technological Research (TISTR)
- National Innovation Agency (NIA)
- National Science Museum Thailand (NSM)
- Thailand Center of Excellence for Life Sciences (TCELS)
- Ministry of Energy
- Ministry of Education
- Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment
- Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives
- Ministry of Public Health
- Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation
This clear list format allows for easier readability and understanding of the organizations involved in the delegations.
Building on Bilateral Agreements
The JCM takes place under the framework of a longstanding scientific cooperation agreement.
The Joint Committee Meeting was conducted in accordance with the bilateral Agreement Relating to Scientific and Technical Cooperation between the Government of the United States of America and the Government of the Kingdom of Thailand.
Initially signed in 2013 and extended in 2018, this agreement sets the foundation for scientific and technical collaboration between the two nations.
Shared Commitment to Resilient Democracies
Strengthening collaboration to build inclusive, resilient societies.
Secretary of State Blinken and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Don reaffirmed their commitment to mutual trust, respect, and shared interests through the 2022 U.S.-Thailand Communique on Strategic Alliance and Partnership.
The United States and Thailand, bound by common values and a shared history, strive to build resilient and inclusive democracies while advancing human rights. The third U.S.-Thailand JCM symbolizes a reinvigoration of bilateral dialogues on science and technology cooperation, signifying a broader and stronger collaboration.
Continued scientific engagement and people-to-people ties between the United States and Thailand will not only drive both economies forward but also contribute to a more resilient future for all citizens.
Foundational Scientific Values and Principles
Prioritizing research and development rooted in scientific integrity and democratic values.
Both the United States and Thailand prioritize research and development that serves their citizens and upholds fundamental scientific values.
These values include openness, transparency, honesty, equity, fair competition, objectivity, and democratic principles.
Both nations aim to foster inclusive scientific research communities that uphold the principles of scientific cooperation, promoting the integrity and security of the international scientific enterprise.
Furthermore, they encourage participation in cooperative activities by researchers and organizations from all sectors.
Continuing Commitment to Collaboration
Reaffirmation of both nations’ dedication to ongoing partnership in science and technology.
The JCM reinforced the commitment of both countries to maintain a close partnership and coordination in science and technology cooperation.
The collaborative efforts between the United States and Thailand in this domain will continue to foster mutual progress and drive innovation.
Sources: THX News and US Department of State.
