Bangkok, Fukuoka Explore Joint Initiatives in Health and Environment

Bangkok, Thailand — Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt recently welcomed Isao Kurauchi, Chairperson of the Fukuoka Prefectural Assembly, along with a delegation of representatives from Fukuoka Prefecture, for a courtesy visit at Bangkok City Hall in the historic Phra Nakhon district.

The meeting highlighted the growing relationship between Bangkok and Fukuoka, with both sides exchanging views on future collaboration in key areas such as medicine, education, and environmental management. Particular attention was given to knowledge-sharing in veterinary medicine and public health, reflecting shared interests in strengthening urban health systems.

Learning Through Shared Experience

During the discussions, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) expressed interest in learning from Japan’s long-standing experience in animal health management. Japan has been free from rabies for decades, a status widely attributed to its comprehensive pet registration systems and vaccination controls. Bangkok officials see value in adapting such best practices to address local public health and animal welfare challenges.

Building on Existing Partnerships

The meeting builds on a series of formal agreements that have laid the foundation for long-term cooperation between the two cities. In November 2024, Bangkok and Fukuoka signed a Letter of Intent on Collaboration and the Promotion of the One Health approach, a framework that recognizes the interconnected well-being of people, animals, and the environment.

Earlier, in January 2023, the two administrations also entered into a Memorandum of Understanding on Further Cooperation, aimed at developing entrepreneurial talent and supporting future economic growth through innovation and skills exchange.

A Shared Vision for Sustainable Cities

With these frameworks in place, Bangkok and Fukuoka continue to explore practical ways to translate policy into action—whether through academic exchange, public health initiatives, or environmental programs. The ongoing dialogue reflects a shared commitment to building more resilient, people-centered cities through international collaboration.

As urban centers across Asia face increasingly complex challenges, partnerships like this underscore the role of city diplomacy in shaping sustainable and inclusive futures.