The inaugural Thai-Chinese Youth Ambassador Camp concluded its 23-day journey on 25 August 2025, with a powerful closing ceremony at the Royal Thai Embassy in Beijing. This landmark programme, an initiative to celebrate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and China, successfully cultivated a new generation of leaders committed to a sustainable and shared future.
Organised by Mae Fah Luang University (MFU) in collaboration with eight partner universities in Thailand and China —Mahidol University, Prince of Songkla University, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Yunnan University, Yunnan Normal University, Kunming Medical University, Yunnan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and Xiamen University — the camp brought together 50 dynamic youth ambassadors, 25 from each country. Over the course of the programme, participants engaged in an immersive cultural exchange across five cities: Bangkok, Songkhla, Chiang Rai, Kunming, and Beijing.
Through academic activities and site visits, participants explored the complexities of sustainable development and applied their learning to pitch innovative project proposals. Among these, the most impactful was the Mekong Cooperation Youth Union (MCYU), an initiative aimed at amplifying youth voices in the decision-making processes. The MCYU seeks to strengthen regional ties through people's diplomacy, fostering inclusivity from the grassroots level.
The camp's theme, "Building a Sustainable Thai-Chinese Community for the Shared Future," was a call to action. From exploring healthcare innovation in Bangkok, sustainable marine management in Songkhla, to tackling cross-border environmental issues in Chiang Rai an d advancing responsible innovation in Kunming and Beijing, the youth ambassadors engaged directly with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These hands-on experiences empowered them to think critically, collaborate effectively, and address pressing global challenges with creativity and responsibility.
At the closing ceremony, Mr. Vorapote Chensavasijai, Minister, Royal Thai Embassy in Beijing, delivered the welcoming address, followed by remarks from distinguished guests, including Assoc. Prof. Dr.Nopraenue Sajjarax Dhirathiti, Vice President for Global Partnerships and University Council, Mahidol University (MU); Asst. Prof. Dr. Thakerng Wongsirichot, Vice President, Prince of Songkla University (PSU); and Ms. Pasupa Chinworasophak, Minister Counselor, Department of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, Royal Thai Embassy, Beijing.
Youth representatives, including Ms. Phimchanok Tuangwittayakul, from Mae Fah Luang University (MFU) and Mr. Li Siyang, a student from Kunming Medical University (KMU), also shared their inspiring experiences and gratitude.
In her vote of thanks, Asst. Prof. Dr.Romyen Kosaikanont, Vice President of Mae Fah Luang University, speaking on behalf of the organising team, expressed heartfelt appreciation to all partner institutions and the youth ambassadors. “You have inspired each other, learned from one another, and shared your cultures, hopes, and dreams,” she stated.
This initiative was made possible with the support of several key organisations, including the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation of Thailand, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Royal Thai Embassy in Beijing, the Royal Thai Consulate-General in Kunming, and the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the Kingdom of Thailand, as well as the Yunnan Provincial People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries.
The Thai-Chinese Youth Ambassador Camp has not only celebrated a half-century of diplomatic relations but has also laid the foundation for an enduring network of future-oriented, cross-cultural leaders. It stands as a testament to the power of youth collaboration in shaping a brighter, more sustainable shared future for both nations.
