{"version":"https:\/\/jsonfeed.org\/version\/1","title":"News Room","home_page_url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th","feed_url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/index\/id\/52","items":[{"id":"5464ad0357ab25cdba5490360d010006","title":"Cabinet Approves Establishment of Iraq Embassy in Thailand","content_text":"

The Cabinet has approved Iraq's request to establish an embassy in Thailand, a step expected to expand bilateral cooperation between the two countries. Government Spokesperson Rachada Dhnadirek said the decision follows Iraq's efforts to reopen an embassy in Thailand after improvements in its domestic stability and coincides with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2026.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

According to the spokesperson, the embassy, once set up, will improve coordination between Thailand and Iraq while opening new opportunities in trade, investment, and energy. Iraq, which has the world's fourth-largest oil reserves, is also an important export market for Thai rice.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

The embassy is also expected to support tourism growth between the two countries, improve consular services for Iraqi nationals, and expand Thailand's engagement with the Middle East. Thailand welcomed 15,644 visitors from Iraq in 2025, more than triple the\"\" previous year's total. <\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/52\/iid\/518136","date_published":"2026-07-01T16:12:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/2026070120ddbbfaf2e71c738ab7cf3e3c39649a163215.jpg"},{"id":"c82f813e9c8ed9ae6170bc894fdde50b","title":"Thailand Prepares Team for Venezuela Earthquake Response","content_text":"

Deputy Interior Minister Jeseth Thaiseth has convened a meeting to review the situation after a powerful earthquake struck Venezuela and to oversee Thailand's emergency response preparations. The earthquake occurred on June 25 at 5:05 a.m. Thailand time, with its epicenter about 160 kilometers west of Caracas. An initial magnitude 7.2 quake was followed by a stronger magnitude 7.5 tremor.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation has established a team to monitor developments around the clock while preparing USAR Thailand for possible deployment if an official request for international assistance is received.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

The deployment plan includes a 46-member core response team, three search-and-rescue dogs, and specialized rescue equipment. Personnel from several government agencies and partner organizations have confirmed they are ready for immediate deployment.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

USAR Thailand is the country's national urban search and rescue team and has received INSARAG External Classification certification from the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group, confirming that it meets internationally recognized standards for humanitarian search and rescue missions in Thailand and overseas. <\/p>\r\n\r\n

\"\"<\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/52\/iid\/516706","date_published":"2026-06-26T16:01:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/2026062608109f33ef631f018c12424ff360c527160906.jpg"},{"id":"807b8d73bf26a2855837e676841d299c","title":"Thailand Wins UN Public Service Award for Inclusive Education ","content_text":"

Thailand has received the top honor at the 2026 United Nations Public Service Awards in the category "Delivering Inclusive and Equitable Services for Leaving No One Behind." The award was presented in Tbilisi, Georgia, to the Office of the Permanent Secretary, Office of the Prime Minister, and the Pang Mu Subdistrict Administrative Organization in Mae Hong Son province for an early childhood education program serving ethnic minority and stateless children.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

The presentation took place during the United Nations Public Service Forum, which was attended by representatives from 62 countries, including government officials, academics, civil society organizations, private-sector leaders, and delegates from international and regional organizations. Deputy Permanent Secretary to the Prime Minister’s Office Chuencheewan Limteerakul accepted the award on Thailand's behalf, accompanied by Pang Mu Subdistrict Administrative Organization President Piriya Tuanglaptweekig and the organization's permanent secretary.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

The award recognized the program, "Equitable Local Early Childhood Education Management for Ethnic Minority and Stateless Children in Pang Mu Subdistrict, Mae Hong Son Province." United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs Li Junhua presented one of 12 awards across four categories.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

The United Nations Public Service Awards recognize excellence and innovation in public service that improve service delivery, increase public participation, and advance the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals. The Office of the Permanent Secretary, through the Office of Decentralization to the Local Government Organization Committee, assisted qualified local government organizations with their applications, contributing to Thailand's success at this year's awards. <\/p>\r\n\r\n

\"\"<\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/52\/iid\/516701","date_published":"2026-06-26T15:58:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/202606269bcb4ddd61370563518702bb4701cd58160013.jpg"},{"id":"1fdf3a20443e83d2b2bf2252068ee24c","title":"Thai and Australian PMs Discuss Closer Bilateral Cooperation ","content_text":"

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul held a telephone conversation with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on June 24 to discuss expanding cooperation between Thailand and Australia in trade, investment, security, and other areas of mutual interest. The leaders also exchanged views on further enhancing bilateral relations.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Security cooperation featured extensively in the talks, with both sides discussing efforts to combat transnational crime, online scam networks, and cyber threats. The leaders also reviewed the continued cooperation between the two countries' security agencies.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

The two prime ministers later discussed the exchange of high-level visits to further advance bilateral ties. Anutin invited Albanese to visit Thailand during celebrations commemorating the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Both leaders reaffirmed their readiness to expand Thailand-Australia cooperation in ways that deliver practical benefits to the people of both countries while supporting closer long-term relations.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

\"\"<\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/52\/iid\/516372","date_published":"2026-06-25T17:18:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/20260625f30660d5e8f9ca24b732722e9a303fc9171936.jpg"},{"id":"b1f3c7b00de5ae61eb32a877a279b6f2","title":"TAT Advances Thailand-Bhutan Tourism Ties Under Two Kingdoms, One Destination","content_text":"

The Tourism Authority of Thailand hosted a reception for a high-level delegation from the Kingdom of Bhutan to strengthen bilateral tourism relations and promote sustainable cooperation under the "Two Kingdoms, One Destination" concept.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

\u200bOn June 23, 2026, TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool and senior executives welcomed H.E. Lyonpo Namgyal Dorji, Minister of Industry, Commerce and Employment of Bhutan, alongside government representatives, in Bangkok.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

\u200bThe reception builds on an existing memorandum of understanding and the close working relationship between the two nations. Discussions focused on exchanging tourism data, sharing policy perspectives on sustainable tourism development, enhancing travel connectivity, and advancing joint marketing strategies. These efforts aim to increase the long-term potential for attracting tourists to both countries.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

\u200bDuring the visit, the Bhutanese delegation toured the Jim Thompson House to experience Thai art and culture. The tour highlighted the history of Thai silk, traditional architecture, and cultural heritage, showcasing Thailand's identity to the international community.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

\u200bThis partnership marks a significant step in deepening ties between Thailand and Bhutan. The continued exchange of tourists is expected to generate mutual economic value and foster sustainable tourism growth for both nations.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

\"\"<\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/52\/iid\/515922","date_published":"2026-06-24T16:24:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/202606242c2df4b65b2c7785312bb8bdc2692a88162604.jpg"},{"id":"fefa2c3ef50eff4a33ce501c4decd960","title":"Thailand and Australia Hold Exercise Chapel Gold 2026","content_text":"

The Royal Thai Army and the Australian Army are conducting Exercise Chapel Gold 2026, an annual joint military exercise intended to enhance operational readiness and military cooperation between the two countries. The exercise is being conducted in Prachin Buri province until June 29 under the responsibility of Thailand's 1st Army Area.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

More than 400 personnel from the Royal Thai Army's 2nd Infantry Regiment, King's Guard, are participating alongside more than 150 personnel from the Australian Army's Rifle Company Butterworth 148. The exercise was officially commenced by Major General Benjapol Dejatiwongse Na Ayudhya, commander of the 2nd Infantry Division, King's Guard, and Captain Paul Welch, Australian defense attaché to Thailand.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Training activities include tactical operations, maneuver warfare, jungle survival, live-fire marksmanship, armored unit operations, and professional military exchanges. Personnel from both armies are also sharing operational experience and field skills to improve coordination and interoperability.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

The exercise is expected to enhance the capabilities and readiness of participating troops while further strengthening long-standing military relations between Thailand and Australia. The training also supports cooperation in regional security and preparedness for a broad range of future missions. <\/p>\r\n\r\n

\"\"<\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/52\/iid\/515920","date_published":"2026-06-24T16:21:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/202606241955f7f9b75aa046f6e20a38471b7804162339.jpg"},{"id":"143af9779f6d85b1c321e4483301104c","title":"Thai Government Advances Vision to Become Regional Bioscience Hub","content_text":"

The government has announced it is working with leading global private-sector partners to promote Thailand as a regional hub for bioscience innovation, develop a knowledge-based economy, and expand access to medical advances.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Deputy Government Spokesperson Lalida Persvivatana said the government is encouraging cooperation among the public sector, industry, and international partners to improve the country's long-term competitiveness. Public Health Minister Pattana Promphat reiterated this approach during the Extraordinary General Meeting of the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers Association (PReMA), where he discussed cooperation between the government and the pharmaceutical industry in advancing medical innovation and research.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

The Ministry of Public Health has introduced its “MOPH PLUS+” approach, which transforms public health into a sector that generates economic value through a value-based transformation. The policy encourages investment in bioscience, medical technologies, and future health industries while supporting the development of a robust health ecosystem.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

The government also plans to work with the private sector on technology transfer, clinical research, human resource development, digital health technologies, and preparedness for emerging diseases. Officials said investment in scientists, researchers, medical professionals, and other highly skilled workers will help create quality jobs, improve access to medical innovation, and support economic growth. <\/p>\r\n\r\n

\"\"<\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/52\/iid\/515514","date_published":"2026-06-23T16:23:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/20260623a9e8c0b67d0c2e16fd64a597a87d73f9162513.jpg"},{"id":"0299e6a7e5463987eee9556654105606","title":"Thai Government Advances Green Hospital Initiative Through Solar Rooftop Pilot Project","content_text":"

Deputy Government Spokesperson Lalida Periswiwatana announced that the government is advancing its Green Hospital policy by promoting clean and renewable energy in public health facilities to reduce operating costs, improve energy efficiency, and support Thailand’s greenhouse gas reduction goals.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

\u200bAs part of this initiative, the Ministry of Public Health and the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) have signed an agreement to install solar rooftop systems at hospitals overseen by the Office of the Permanent Secretary for Public Health. The pilot phase will include 25 hospitals nationwide.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

\u200bMinister of Public Health Pattana Promphat stated that the government is working to strengthen national energy security and promote economic and environmental sustainability. The Ministry is also advancing its Net Zero MOPH policy to make healthcare facilities more environmentally friendly and energy-efficient.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

\u200bHospitals under the Ministry of Public Health operate 24 hours a day and have high electricity demand. Last year, their combined electricity costs exceeded 5.61 billion baht. Solar rooftop systems are expected to reduce long-term expenses and enhance energy security for these facilities.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

\u200bThe 25 pilot hospitals are projected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 7,211 tons of carbon per year, or 288 tons per hospital. The project is also expected to save over 55 million baht in annual electricity costs, averaging 2.2 million baht per hospital.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

\u200bDeputy Minister of Interior Polapee Suwunchwee stated that PEA will provide comprehensive solar rooftop management, including design, installation, and maintenance, to ensure safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

\u200bThe deputy spokesperson emphasized that adopting renewable energy in the public sector must provide tangible public benefits without causing financial strain. The administration plans to expand the solar rooftop project to all Ministry of Public Health hospitals nationwide, supporting sustainable operations, enhancing public health services, and advancing the country's progress toward carbon neutrality.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

\"\"<\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/52\/iid\/515107","date_published":"2026-06-22T15:14:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/20260622d8690bba9247f172811b95dd5ecf6b1c151539.jpg"},{"id":"edab5d6df8afdfeda139d1f520529db9","title":"Thailand and Japan Advance Cooperation on Geoheritage and Dinosaur Tourism","content_text":"

Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Suchart Chomklin held discussions with Takato Ishida, Governor of Fukui Prefecture of Japan, to strengthen cooperation on geoheritage management and the development of geological and fossil-based tourism between Thailand and Japan.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

During the discussion, both sides agreed to promote cooperation in conserving and developing geoheritage sites and to build networks among fossil, geological, and natural history museums. Thailand aims to adopt best practices from Fukui Prefecture, which is recognized for its dinosaur fossil discoveries and geoheritage management.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

The minister assigned Department of Mineral Resources Director-General Yongyuth Nakaviroj to hold further discussions with Professor Dr. Yukimoto Iwasaki, President of Fukui Prefectural University, Professor Dr. Hiroshi Nishi, Dean of the Faculty of Dinosaur Paleontology, and executives and researchers from the Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum. The delegations agreed to advance joint geological and paleontological research, conduct field surveys, and exchange data and fossil specimens.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

The collaboration will also focus on upgrading museum administration to international standards, training new researchers, and promoting public science education. This Thai-Japanese partnership is a significant step in using natural heritage to boost geotourism, generate value from natural resources, and support sustainable grassroots economic growth in line with national government policies.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

\"\"<\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/52\/iid\/515075","date_published":"2026-06-22T14:37:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/20260622a265dbbbb7dae2d48fd7e9d94f1450fb144145.jpg"},{"id":"a6b4cc0404a882770593f5a56e0e23ca","title":"S&P Affirms Thailand's BBB+ Rating With Stable Outlook ","content_text":"

S&P Global Ratings has affirmed Thailand's sovereign credit rating at BBB+ and maintained a stable outlook, citing confidence in the country's economic fundamentals, external financial position, and policy direction.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Public Debt Management Office (PDMO) Director-General Jindarat Viriyataveekul said S&P projects Thailand's economy will grow by 2.0 percent in 2026 and average about 2.3 percent annually between 2026 and 2029. Income per capita is expected to increase from around 8,000 US dollars in 2024 to 9,000 dollars in 2026, partly due to the appreciation of the Thai baht.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

The ratings agency said political stability is expected to support policy continuity and facilitate economic restructuring and strategic investment projects, including developments in the Eastern Economic Corridor and transportation infrastructure. State enterprise investment and public-private partnerships are also expected to improve Thailand's competitiveness. Tourism remains a key driver of the economy despite a 2.4 percent year-on-year decline in international arrivals during the first quarter of 2026.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

S&P projects Thailand's fiscal deficit at about 3.2 percent of GDP in both 2026 and 2027 and expects the country's current account surplus to average 2.0 percent of GDP in 2026 and 2.1 percent during 2026-2029. The PDMO said Thailand's substantial international reserves, fiscal trajectory, income levels, and ability to absorb external shocks will continue to support its sovereign credit profile.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

\"\"<\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/52\/iid\/514392","date_published":"2026-06-19T17:20:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/202606197639adbac925b0bfd0dd01e915af706f172327.jpg"}]}