On 10 April 2025, Mr. Jae-bok Chang, the CEO of CityNet Secretariat, met with H.E. Mr. Tanee Sangrat, Ambassador of Thailand to the Republic of Korea, during an official visit to the Royal Thai Embassy in Seoul. The meeting focused on exploring potential collaboration between CityNet and cities across Thailand.

Mr. Chang shared his enthusiasm for his upcoming business trip to Bangkok, where he will attend the 81st Session of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP). Ambassador Vejjajiva conveyed his warm wishes for a successful and safe visit.

The discussion also centred on future cooperation opportunities between CityNet and Thai cities. Ambassador Vejjajiva highlighted shared areas of interest in detail, including disaster risk management, traffic control, pollution mitigation, food waste reduction, and sustainable development—such as renewable energy and river management. These themes align closely with CityNet’s current programmes and areas of expertise.

Additionally, the Ambassador requested CityNet’s support in revisiting a joint project involving the Seoul Metropolitan Government (SMG) and Thailand’s Pollution Control Department. Given CityNet’s strong partnership with SMG, Mr. Chang affirmed the organization’s willingness to provide support in coordination.

In his closing remarks, Mr. Chang reaffirmed CityNet’s strong commitment to the ASEAN region and expressed hope for increased participation from Thai cities. He emphasized the mutual benefits that enhanced engagement can bring to both Thailand and the wider regional community.

This article was written by Bada Jeon, Programme Assistant at CityNet. She can be reached at pg.assistant4@citynet-ap.org.