On 24 July, Secretary General Shi Zhongjun of the ASEAN-China Centre (ACC) host an inter-agency delegation from Thailand in Beijing. Led by Mr. Bolbongse Vangphaen, Director General of ASEAN Department of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, the delegation comprised senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, and Ministry of Industry.  

DG Bolbongse commended the ACC’s pivotal role in advancing ASEAN-China cooperation and outlined the delegation’s key objectives, particularly in addressing transboundary haze, a pressing challenge for ASEAN requiring collective action and multi-stakeholder collaboration. Thailand values Chinese successful experiences and advanced technologies in environmental challenges. Thailand looks forward to learning from China and the ACC' bridging role in supporting the efforts of ASEAN in combating haze pollution and promoting sustainable development. 

SG Shi shared China’s achievements in air pollution control and highlighted the ACC flagship initiatives in smart agriculture and green development, which are all interconnected with haze problem. As the only intergovernmental organization jointly established by ASEAN and China, the ACC is committed to fostering ASEAN-China cooperation to enhance the well-being of people of both sides. The ACC is willing to explore concrete actions and projects to deepen collaboration with Thailand, including joint training programs, workshops, and technical exchanges in fields of environmental protection, agricultural innovation, and green finance.  

DG Bolbongse appreciated the proposals and reaffirmed the strong support of ASEAN Department of MFA Thailand to the ACC. Both sides also exchange views on other bilateral and regional cooperation opportunities, underscoring their shared commitment to deepening the ASEAN-China Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.