BANGKOK, Thailand – A Ministry of Culture delegation, led by Permanent Secretary Prasop Riang-ngen, has participated in discussions with representatives of Comité Colbert in France to advance cooperation in arts, crafts, and craftsmanship. The Thai delegation included Department of Cultural Promotion Director-General Yuthika Israngkun Na Ayuthaya and Urusaya Inthrasuksri, director of the Foreign Affairs Division at the Ministry of Culture, while the French side was represented by Bénédict Epinay and Laurent Dhennequin.
The meeting covered approaches to promoting artisanship, a core element of cultural heritage and the creative industries in both countries. The Thai side discussed plans to support artisans by registering intangible cultural heritage, recognizing national artists and master craftsmen, developing a central database, and coordinating among relevant agencies to expand capabilities and opportunities. Both sides stressed the importance of encouraging younger generations to value craftsmanship and develop an interest in related fields. The French representatives shared experience from a program that allows youth and the public to engage directly with master artisans through hands-on learning. The two parties also exchanged views on future cooperation, including artisan exchange programs, cross-cultural demonstrations, platforms for dialogue, and links between Thai artists in France and the Comité Colbert network. (NNT)
