Thai-Australian Engagement Continues
16 June 2014
Earlier today, the Australian Ambassador to Thailand, James Wise, spoke at the opening of a workshop on improving research outcomes in Thailand.
In his opening remarks, Mr Wise said Australia’s involvement in this workshop was a clear indication that, even though the Australian Government has grave concerns about Thailand’s recent military coup, Australia will continue to engage fruitfully with Thailand.
Mr Wise reiterated that Australia has reduced its military engagement with Thailand, and that three planned military activities have been postponed.
But, he emphasised that, contrary to some reports, other activities in the defence relationship as well as activities in the broader bilateral relationship have not been affected.
Mr Wise said, “This workshop is living proof of our continuing engagement, and living proof that Australia wants to work with Thailand in fields where we can learn from each other’s experience.”
The aim of the workshop, which is co-funded by the Australian Government and the Office of the Higher Education Commission, is to help Thai universities to improve their research outcomes and increase their domestic and international collaboration.
The workshop is being attended by vice-presidents and other representatives of Thailand’s nine National Research Universities and Naresuan University, as well as government policy makers and researchers.