To evaluate these challenges, AIT played host on
21 May 2012 to delegates attending the International Conference on
“Energy and Environment Sector Cooperation of the GMS Countries.”
Thirty-one senior officials for Myanmar, Vietnam, China, Lao PDR,
Cambodia and Thailand attended a morning-long study workshop on
environment issues of the GMS countries facilitated by Assoc. Prof. Dr.
Weerakorn Ongsakul, Dean of the School of Environment, Resources and
Development (SERD).
He was joined by Associate Prof. Dr. Thammarat Koottatep, Coordinator
of Environmental Engineering and Management Field of Study, who shared
a number of wastewater and de-centralized sanitation
perspectives.
Stressing AIT’s uniqueness as an international intergovernmental
organization in Thailand, Prof. I.M. Pandey, Vice President for
Academic Affairs, welcomed members of the six-nation group visiting AIT
for the first time.
He noted the institute’s strengths in environmental and energy
education, research and outreach, and added how it is also
distinguished by its commitment to regional capacity building.
“The problems in Asia are more complex than most parts of the world,”
said Prof. Pandey, emphasizing the importance of regional gatherings
that promote learning, skills development and cooperation. “Programs
such as these go a long way towards benefitting regional
development.”
“The topic is very timely,” concluded Prof. Weerakorn, stressing the
need for training and cooperation on trans-boundary issues such a
cross-border power connection. The GMS and ASEAN at large are
integrating so this type of professional learning exchange is highly
important, he said.
The nine-day conference also involves study stops in Nakhonnayok,
Saraburi, Bangkok Pathum Thani and Chonburi provinces. Delegates
included a mix of public and private sector officials, with ten
delegates attending from conference organizer Foundation for
International Resource Development (FIHRD) from Thailand. ML Chanchot
Jombunud, Board Member, FIHRD, led the delegation to AIT.
Also attending the session at the AIT Conference Center was Mr.
Olivier Drean, Interim Head External Relations and Communications
Office (ERCO); Mr.Tenzin Rabgyal, Program Officer, ERCO; and Ms.
Wilailak Yooprem of RTG Office, ERCO. The meeting was organized and
facilitated by Ms. Wannapa Pliansri, Coordinator, RTG Relations,
ERCO.
