BANGKOK, Thailand – Thailand and Japan are expanding transport cooperation across road and rail development, disaster preparedness, smart mobility, construction safety, and workforce training. Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn met Hirose Masayoshi, vice minister for engineering affairs at Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism (MLIT), in Bangkok on September 3 to discuss ongoing projects and future cooperation.
The two sides are preparing to renew an MOU covering transport planning, policy, traffic technology, and road safety. Talks also addressed the use of Japanese expertise in flood management and disaster-resilient infrastructure, including the floodway concept and improved drainage systems, as well as modern technology for traffic management and construction.
Rail cooperation will include JICA assistance in developing SRT Electrified Train Co., Ltd.’s technical capabilities, with Japanese experts supporting Thai personnel in Red Line operations and train maintenance. Thailand and Japan also plan to develop smart mobility around Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal and the wider Bang Sue area, connecting public transportation with surrounding urban and commercial development.
Phiphat instructed relevant agencies to expedite the resolution of outstanding financial and contractual matters related to the Red Line project, in accordance with Thai law and the State Railway of Thailand regulations. Thailand will also facilitate Japanese private-sector participation in transport projects, seeking to improve connectivity, reduce logistics costs, expand domestic expertise, and maintain long-term investor confidence. (NNT)
