Thailand and China have strengthened their cooperation in polar studies via several collaborative efforts such as shared scientific missions, lab collaborations, and the exchange of researchers.
During a recent symposium held at Chulalongkorn University with participation from scientists, researchers, and diplomats of both nations, China displayed its most current polar research ship, Xue Long 2 — marking their fourth such vessel after Xiang Yang Hong 10, Jidi, and Xue Long.
The vessel, with a displacement of 13,990 tons, offers assistance for climate observation, polar sampling, and oceanographic research.
The Chinese Vice Minister of Natural Resources, Sun Shuxian, emphasized the accelerating changes in the Arctic region and stressed the significance of collaborative studies. Discussing climate change, he noted, “The Arctic is experiencing warming at a pace much quicker than the worldwide average, leading to a rapid reduction in sea ice.”
He commended the collaboration between China and Thailand, which includes the China-Thailand HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Antarctic Joint Laboratory at the Chinese Great Wall Station, inaugurated in 2019.
Over ten Thai researchers have taken part in the Chinese National Arctic and Antarctic Research Expeditions (CHINARE). Together, they have witnessed significant achievements like reaching the North Pole.
” Our partnership keeps growing into uncharted territories, focusing our combined efforts on researching Arctic and Antarctic environmental shifts along with their worldwide effects, exploring atmospheric science, conducting oceanic investigations, and making astronomical observations,” he stated.
A Thai researcher named Sujaree Bureekul shared insights from her work on water sampling, sea ice observation, and volcanic activity research in the Arctic region.
She mentioned that these experiences expanded her viewpoint on polar systems and interdisciplinary science.
The collaboration between Thai and Chinese experts in astronomy and polar sciences commenced in 2013 following His Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn’s desire for Thailand to engage more deeply in these areas of research.
In 2016, the collaboration came into being via an agreement outlined in a Memorandum of Understanding. This pact was established between China’s Arctic and Antarctic Administration and five Thai educational institutions, with HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn overseeing the event.
Efforts since then have broadened to encompass training programs, collaborative surveys, data sharing initiatives, and seminars.
Professor Suchana Chavanich from Chulalongkorn University highlighted the increasing acknowledgment of polar research in Thailand and how it connects to coastal and environmental resilience.
This collaboration enhances capabilities via joint research initiatives, student exchanges, and investigations into marine ecosystems. The alliance between China and Thailand seeks to serve as an exemplar of global scientific teamwork and tackle critical environmental issues.
At the same time, China’s Xue Long 2 polar research icebreaker arrived at Chuk Samet Pier in Chon Buri’s Sattahip district. This docking occurred from May 19-23 to commemorate both HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn’s 70th birthday and 50 years of diplomatic relations between Thailand and China.
On May 20, The Princess inspected the ship alongside high-ranking Chinese officials, commending China’s polar research efforts and a collaborative lab initiative spanning 12 years.
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