Deputy Prime Minister Songsak held talks with the Japanese Ambassador, proposing four projects to address water issues. He revealed Japan’s interest in the water management plans for the Chao Phraya and Hat Yai basins and their readiness to advise Thailand.
At 10:10 a.m. on 15 July 2026 GMT+7. Mr. Songsak Thongsri, Deputy Prime Minister. He spoke at the Government House following a courtesy visit by H.E. Mr. OTAKA Masato, the Japanese Ambassador to Thailand. The discussion focused on water issues and flood prevention. The Japanese government and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) prioritize these topics. Japan is a close ally and friend of Thailand, providing advice since the 2011 floods. The Japanese government also assisted during the floods in Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province.
Mr. Songsak added that during the talks, the Japanese Ambassador emphasized the need for systematic approaches and cooperation to solve water problems. The National Water Resources Office (NWRO) has proposed projects seeking Japan's cooperation. The Japanese government showed interest and offered advice, which Thailand is reviewing to determine necessary actions, including reprioritizing some planned projects.
The projects proposed for technical cooperation with JICA to advance concrete water resource management include four initiatives, focusing on academic collaboration with Japan:
1. Decision Support System in U-Tapao Sub-River Basin.
2. Development of Water Zoning and Floodplain Management System in the Chao Phraya River Basin, Thailand.
3. Assessment of Sediment Accumulation in the Chao Phraya River Mouth Area Using Advanced Technology.
4. Development Planning of a Water Civic Participation Platform.
The Deputy Prime Minister said Japan is interested in the water management plans for the Chao Phraya and Hat Yai areas. Thailand asked Japan to consider all four projects as a collaborative gift marking the 140th anniversary of Thailand-Japan relations in 2027. Japan’s support will come in various forms beyond advisory services, depending on which projects Thailand accepts.
When asked if the Japanese Ambassador invited the Prime Minister to visit Japan, Mr. Songsak said the Prime Minister previously attended an event about Japan at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, highlighting the strong Thailand-Japan relationship and ongoing cooperation.