On 4 August 2025, Mae Fah Luang University, in collaboration with its partners, officially launched the “Thai-Chinese Youth Ambassador Camp.” Under the theme “Building Sustainable Thai-Chinese Community for the Shared Future,” the camp was created to celebrate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and the People's Republic of China.
The opening ceremony, held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Vithes Samosorn, included welcome remarks by several distinguished guests:
• Ms. Pensom Lertsithichai, Deputy Director-General of the Department of East Asian Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA)
• Mr. Wu Zhiwu, Deputy Chief of Mission and Minister, Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Thailand
• Dr. Luksmon Smansin, Director of the International Affairs Division, on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI)
• Asst. Prof. Dr. Matchima Naradisorn, President, Mae Fah Luang University (MFU)
• Assoc. Prof. Dr.Nopraenue Sajjarax Dhirathiti, Vice President for Global Partnerships and University Council, Mahidol University (MU)
• Asst. Prof. Dr. Thakerng Wongsirichot, Vice President, Prince of Songkla University (PSU)
MFU initiated the camp and joined hands with Mahidol University, Prince of Songkla University, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Yunnan University, Yunnan Normal University, Kunming Medical University, Yunnan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and Xiamen University. The programme brings together 50 youth participants—25 from Thailand and 25 from China—for a cultural exchange journey across five cities in both countries from 3 – 25 August 2025.
The objectives of this 23-day journey are to foster a new generation of Thai-Chinese youth leaders with a comprehensive understanding of the sustainable development contexts of both countries; cultivate a deep appreciation for the historical significance and evolution of Thai-Chinese relations; equip participants with future-oriented thinking and cross-disciplinary, cross-cultural collaboration skills, with the potential to propose concrete initiatives under the Thai-Yunnan Education Cooperation Framework; and establish a lasting network of Thai-Chinese youth leaders committed to long-term cooperation within a community of shared future.
This initiative is supported by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation of Thailand, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Royal Thai Embassy in Beijing, the Royal Thai Consulate-General in Kunming, and the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the Kingdom of Thailand, as well as the Yunnan Provincial People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries.
Ms. Pensom Lertsithichai, praised the project’s timing as a crucial activity for the 50th-anniversary celebrations. She emphasised that these young ambassadors are key to driving and continuing the Thailand-China relationship, and that the new friendships formed will be a vital foundation for building a community with a shared future. Mr. Wu Zhiwu highlighted that the bond between the two countries has deepened over the past 50 years, having withstood the tests of time and global uncertainty. He noted that the phrase ‘Thai-Chinese are one family’ is not just a slogan but reflects the heartfelt sentiments of both peoples, and also mentioned China’s role as Thailand’s largest trading partner for 12 consecutive years.
Dr. Laksamon stated, “Youth are not only the ‘hope for the future’ but the ‘power of today’ that can co-create innovation and meaningful impact.” She expressed confidence that the friendships formed through this programme would pave the way for long-term collaboration. Asst. Prof. Dr. Matchima Naradisorn, President of Mae Fah Luang University, stated that this camp represents more than an educational programme; it is truly an investment in our shared future, where young minds will forge the partnerships and innovations that will define the next chapter of Thai-Chinese relations. “Most importantly, we look forward to concrete recommendations and action plans for long-term cooperation in sustainable development; solutions born from the fresh perspectives and innovative thinking that only our youth can provide,” she said. “Through your efforts, we will enhance people-to-people engagement and elevate the visibility of Thai-China relations on the international stage, demonstrating to the world the power of educational diplomacy.”
Moreover, Prof. Dr. Vanchai Sirichana, Chairman of the University Council, Founding President of Mae Fah Laung University, and Former Permanent Secretary for Ministry of University Affairs, officially opened the event. He explained that MFU recognised the importance of Thai-Chinese relations from its inception and has established a strong collaborative relationship with China. He stated that this initiative is built on the belief that educational cooperation is a cornerstone of lasting friendship. “The Thai-Chinese Youth Ambassador Camp is a gateway of opportunity for these students, who are the future of both nations, to deepen a long-standing network of relationships, deepen their understanding of each other’s culture and development, and foster a shared vision for a sustainable future,” Dr. Vanchai said.
Following the opening ceremony, a panel discussion titled “The Role of Youth in Thai-Chinese Relations for the Shared Future” was held. The panelists were:
• H.E. Mrs. Jiraporn Sudanich, Ambassador attached to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and former Consul-General in Guangzhou
• Mr. Zhao Mengtao, Counsellor at the Chinese Embassy in Thailand
• Mr. Zijie Zhao, Chinese youth representative (former President of the Chinese Student and Scholar Association in Thailand (CSSAT)
• Ms. Natvara Pichedpan, Thai youth representative and UNICEF Youth Advisor for Thailand and the East Asia Pacific region.
The session was moderated by Ms. Watcharin Setakudan, Vice President of Foreign News Department, MCOT Public Co., Ltd.
Ms. Jiraporn Sudanich pointed out two key historical foundations of Thai-Chinese relations: long-standing trade ties since the Sukhothai era, and cultural connections rooted in the 2.6 million Chinese descendants in Thailand, most of whom trace their ancestry to Guangdong. She highlighted how both nations have weathered challenges together, such as the Asian financial crisis (TomYam Kung Crisis), and the COVID-19 pandemic, and noted that the mutual visa exemption policy has facilitated increased travel and exchange.
Mr. Zhao Mengtao discussed CP Group’s pioneering role as the first Thai private company to invest in China after its opening. He noted that CP launched TV programmes to promote understanding of Thailand and the world, inspiring many Chinese youths to seek international experiences.
From the youth’s perspective, Mr. Zhao Zhijie, a Guangdong native who has lived in Thailand for nine years working with CP Group, shared why he chose Thailand for his studies: “The beauty of the country and the warmth of its people made me feel at home. I like the culture here and don’t want to leave. I see various Chinese culture here as well, from Chinatown to Cantonese language being spoken.”
Mrs. Natwara Pichetphan, a Thammasat University graduate with first-class honours in Data Science, who is heading to Tsinghua University on a Chinese government scholarship, said her interest in China stemmed from its rich technology landscape and cultural influence—including inspiration from Chinese music. In terms of educational and scientific cooperation, Mrs. Jiraporn Sudanich outlined various frameworks, including: over 40 Thai-Chinese sister city collaborations and the Thai-Yunnan Education Cooperation, where more than 4,000 Chinese students are studying Thai and Thai lecturers are sent to Yunnan universities. Scientific collaboration has also received royal support, with Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn visiting Guangdong to reflect her strong interest in astronomy and related partnerships.
In conclusion, the panelists offered guidance for future youth leaders. Mrs. Jiraporn Sudanich shared key takeaways:
1. Open-mindedness and self-awareness: “Know others and know yourself, and you will win a hundred battles” (Sun Tzu)
2. Every person is a cultural ambassador: your words and actions represent your country
3. Great leadership begins with understanding, open-heartedness, and an appreciation for diversity
Mr. Zhao Mengtao encouraged the youth to recognise the immense opportunities in China, a market valued at USD 7 trillion, and to envision their future roles in the robust Thai-Chinese relationship.
The opening ceremony successfully concluded with the active engagement and insightful sharing among the panelists and camp participants. The participants then joined the specially designed academic dialogue, cultural exchange, and shared learning experiences in Bangkok.
