On 9 June 2026, Mrs. Pimwadee Sovaratanapong, Deputy Director-General of Thailand International Cooperation Agency (TICA), welcomed and met with Prof. Jassim A. Al-Khayat, Principal Investigator of the Environmental Science Center (ESC), Qatar University (QU), and Prof. P. Vethamony, ESC Faculty Member, on the occasion of their visit to Thailand to participate in a study visit and knowledge exchange programe on environment and biodiversity (mangrove conservation) under Thailand–Qatar cooperation. Also attending the meeting were Mrs. Chachsaran Lertkiattiwong, Director of International Cooperation Development Division, representatives from the Royal Thai Embassy in Doha, and relevant officials.

During the meeting, both sides exchanged views on promoting cooperation in the fields of environment and biodiversity, and discussed opportunities to further expand collaboration in areas of mutual interest, including mangrove conservation and restoration, coastal ecosystem management, and dugong conservation. The Qatari side also shared information and experiences that would be beneficial for the future development of cooperation between the two countries.

The study visit was jointly organized by TICA, the Royal Thai Embassy in Doha, and the Faculty of Environment, Kasetsart University. The programe aims to promote the exchange of knowledge, experiences, and best practices in mangrove conservation and restoration, coastal ecosystem management, and biodiversity conservation. It also provides an opportunity for experts and relevant agencies from both countries to strengthen professional networks and explore potential areas for future collaboration.

During their visit, the delegation visited and hold discussions with relevant Thai agencies, including the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources, the Laem Phak Bia Environmental Research and Development Project under the Royal Initiative in Phetchaburi Province, and the Sea Turtle Conservation Center of the Royal Thai Navy. These visits allow the delegation to learn about Thailand’s approaches to marine and coastal resource conservation and provide useful insights for further developing environmental and biodiversity cooperation between Thailand and Qatar.