Bangkok, Thailand – On 15 December 2025, The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) and the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) have strengthened Thai–French cooperation with the signing of a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at addressing key urban development challenges and promoting sustainable city growth.
The MoU was officially signed by Mr. Chadchart Sittipunt, Governor of Bangkok, and Mr. Jean-Pierre Marcelli, Regional Director for Southeast Asia of AFD. The signing ceremony was witnessed by Mr. Jean-Claude Poimboeuf, Ambassador of France to Thailand, underscoring the importance of the partnership at a bilateral level.
A Shared Vision for a More Livable Bangkok
The agreement sets out a strategic framework for cooperation focused on developing Bangkok into a livable, resilient, and environmentally friendly metropolis. Both France and Thailand reaffirmed their commitment to improving quality of life for residents while maintaining a balance between economic development and environmental protection.
As a major urban center and a strategic hub in Southeast Asia, Bangkok faces growing challenges related to climate change, urban resilience, and sustainability. The MoU aims to support the city in responding effectively to these modern urban pressures through long-term collaboration and knowledge exchange.
€450,000 Grant to Support Key Urban Priorities
To support the implementation of the MoU, France has considered approving €450,000 in grant funding, to be administered by the Agence Française de Développement. The funding will mobilize expertise from France’s public and private sectors, focusing on three priority areas:
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Air quality improvement
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Green infrastructure development
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Access to green financing
These focus areas align closely with Bangkok’s ongoing efforts to enhance environmental sustainability, promote healthier urban living, and attract climate-friendly investment.
Strengthening Thai–French Urban Cooperation
The signing marks another milestone in Thai–French cooperation on sustainable urban development, reinforcing France’s role as a long-term partner in Bangkok’s transformation into a greener and more resilient city.