The year 2025 marks a significant milestone in Thailand–China relations, commemorating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two countries. The celebration is held under the theme “The Golden Year of Thailand–China Friendship”, alongside the 10th anniversary of the Digital Belt and Road (DBAR) initiative, which serves as a key platform for strengthening regional cooperation in science, technology, and innovation.
The commemorative events are jointly supported by key organizations, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT), and relevant partner agencies from both Thailand and China. A central role is played by the DBAR International Centre of Excellence–Bangkok (DBAR-ICoE-Bangkok), located at NRCT, which serves as Thailand’s principal hub for DBAR-related scientific and technological collaboration.
The scientific and technological activities under the DBAR framework are led by Dr. Manitip Srirattana, Director of DBAR-ICoE-Bangkoktogether with Associate Professor Dr. XUE Wenchao of the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT), reflecting Thailand’s strong leadership and institutional commitment to advancing the Digital Belt and Road agenda.
The program also features exhibitions showcasing satellite imagery, geospatial information, and research outputs addressing environmental monitoring, disaster risk reduction, climate change adaptation, and sustainable development. These exhibits demonstrate the application of Big Data and digital technologies in addressing regional and global challenges.
As a core member of the international DBAR network, DBAR-ICoE-Bangkok plays a strategic role in fostering interdisciplinary research collaboration, capacity building, and data-driven decision-making aligned with the Digital Belt and Road and the broader Belt and Road Initiative.
The official emblem of the celebration depicts a Naga and a Dragon intertwined to form the number 50, symbolizing the cultural heritage of Thailand and China, their enduring friendship, and a shared vision for a sustainable future.
In summary, DBAR and DBAR-ICoE-Bangkok, under the leadership of AIT and NRCT, serve as key driving forces in advancing science and technology cooperation within the celebration of the 50th anniversary of Thailand–China diplomatic relations, elevating bilateral and regional partnerships toward shared sustainable development goals.
