On February 7, 2025, Professor Dr. Supachai Pathumnakul, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation (MHESI), along with Ms. Pennapa Kanchana, OAP Deputy Secretary-General and the Thai delegation, held bilateral discussions with Mr. Ling Jing, Vice Chairman of the China Atomic Energy Authority (CAEA), and his team in Beijing, People’s Republic of China. The meeting aimed to further strengthen cooperation on the peaceful use of nuclear energy, enhancing Thailand’s capability in clean energy to support the government’s policy on achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions.
This discussion was particularly significant as it was part of the 50th anniversary of Thailand-China diplomatic relations. Both countries signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on cooperation in nuclear technology for peaceful purposes, with a focus on developing Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) which is a technology that is safe, highly efficient, and provides clean energy that helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
During the bilateral meeting, both parties agreed to establish a working group to develop a roadmap under the MOU, with OAP acting as the coordinating agency under MHESI. CAEA expressed its willingness to support MHESI in training and capacity-building efforts in Thailand to prepare for the adoption of nuclear technology for electricity generation using Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). This aligns with the policy direction of Ms. Supamas Isarabhakdi, Minister of MHESI, in promoting clean and sustainable energy to address environmental challenges and advance nuclear energy development for power generation. Given that China has over 40 years of experience in nuclear power generation, collaboration with China ensures that the use of nuclear energy in Thailand will be implemented safely and sustainably.
The discussion highlighted four key areas of focus:
The discussion highlighted four key areas of focus:
– Public awareness – Educating the public on nuclear safety and the benefits of nuclear energy.
– Nuclear energy policy and planning – Establishing Thailand’s nuclear energy development framework in compliance with international standards.
– Research and development in nuclear technology – Advancing innovations and assessing the feasibility of SMRs in Thailand’s context.
– Enhancing safety standards – Strengthening the capacity of personnel involved in nuclear regulation to ensure nuclear security and safety.
CAEA also reaffirmed its commitment to working with relevant Chinese agencies on the peaceful use of nuclear energy and regulatory safety oversight to support MHESI under the scope of the MOU and international cooperation projects. As MHESI plays a crucial role in preparing and driving Thailand’s adoption of nuclear energy, OAP will serve as the primary coordinator for developing the roadmap under the MOU. This effort will involve collaboration with relevant agencies and academic institutions to ensure that Thailand can utilize nuclear energy safely.
This collaboration marks a “significant step for Thailand towards the clean energy era.” Nuclear energy is expected to be a viable alternative energy source that enhances energy security, reduces dependence on fossil fuels, and addresses environmental challenges, driving Thailand towards a sustainable future.
