UK and Thailand commit to closer science ties
Thailand and the UK sign Memorandum of Understanding, cementing science, innovation and technology collaboration during visit by Thai Minister of Science and Technology, Dr Suvit Maesincee.
London, 14 November – Thai Minister of Science and Technology, Dr Suvit Maesincee and the UK Government’s Chief Scientific Adviser, Dr. Patrick Vallance today signed a UK-Thailand Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), committing to further promote cooperation in the field of science, technology and innovation.
Thailand and the UK already enjoy strong science, technology and innovation links including through 19 government-funded joint programmes focused on science to support sustainable development. The Newton Fund, which aims to develop science and innovation partnerships that promote the economic development and welfare of collaborating countries, supports these from the UK side, working in partnership with Thai funding organisations. Examples of these programmes include: research to improve the resilience of rice crops to extreme weather conditions and climate change; and research into swine and poultry health including the prevention of disease outbreaks.
The UK-Thailand MOU is intended to facilitate closer co-operation, building on our strong collaboration to date.
Following the signing of the MOU, the British Embassy in Bangkok will be seeking to discuss and develop further opportunities for bilateral scientific collaboration with partners in Thailand.
Thai Minister of Science and Technology, Dr Suvit Maesincee is visiting the UK for two days. He is meeting the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office’s Minister for Asia and the Pacific; the UK Government’s Chief Scientific Adviser and the Chief Executive of UK Research and Innovation. He will also visit scientific facilities and the UK Research and Innovation headquarters.