Overview
Administration
CU Symbols
GREEN UNIVERSITY
CONTACT
Programs
Admissions
Exchange Student
Academic Units
Life at CU
Academic Services
Medical Services
Quality Assurance Services
Information Services
Creative Space
CU News
17 March 2025
Featured News, Research & Innovation
The Institute of Asian Studies, Chulalongkorn University, in collaboration with the Program Management Unit on Area-Based Development (PMU-A), hosted the 2nd “Asia Forward Series” on March 11, 2025, at the Music Hall, Chulalongkorn University’s Art and Culture Building. The event featured a special lecture titled “From Corridors to Connectivity: Thailand’s Approach to New Security Dynamics” by General Songwit Noonpackdee, Chief of Defense Forces. The opening remarks were delivered by Professor Dr. Surakiart Sathirathai, Chairman of the Chulalongkorn University Council.
Professor Dr. Surakiart Sathirathai welcomed all attendees, including General Songwit Noonpackdee, and expressed appreciation for his participation as the keynote speaker. He commended the Asia Forward Series, initiated by the Institute of Asian Studies to mark its 40th anniversary. This initiative reflects the institute’s commitment to bridging academia from various sectors to exchange knowledge on Asia’s regional growth amid global uncertainties.
As President of the Chulalongkorn University Council, Dr. Surakiart emphasized the university’s role as a society leader in fostering knowledge that keeps pace with global changes while encouraging cross-sector collaboration. Reflecting on his tenure in key political roles—including Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Minister of Finance, and Advisor to the Prime Minister, Dr. Surakiart underscored the importance of diplomatic relations, economic security, and national stability as fundamental factors shaping Thailand’s global position.
He highlighted that the 21st century is the “Asian Century,” with Asia emerging as a pivotal force in global affairs. The region accounts for 59% of the world’s population, with China and India topping the list. Asia has also seen unprecedented economic growth, driven by trade liberalization, particularly in China. According to the World Bank, East Asia’s GDP per capita surged by 4,338% compared to 2018, with China as the world’s second-largest economy in 2023 (over $18 trillion GDP) and India projected to rank third by 2030 (exceeding $8 trillion GDP).
Despite Asia’s rapid expansion, Dr. Surakiart cautioned against income inequality, political instability, and regional conflicts, particularly border disputes that could disrupt economic and security cooperation. Rising protectionist policies and unilateral actions by certain countries pose additional challenges, raising critical questions on how Asia can foster multilateral cooperation to mitigate these risks.
He suggested that transforming conflicts into opportunities is crucial. Asia’s strong international partnerships and regional networks provide avenues to enhance economic, political, and technological collaborations. Furthermore, civil society engagement and youth participation are essential for fostering inclusive development, strengthening regional ties, and reducing conflicts.
General Songwit Noonpackdee, Chief of Defense Forces, expressed gratitude to Chulalongkorn University for organizing the Asia Forward Series as a crucial platform for dialogue between security officials and the academic community. He emphasized the importance of collaborative security efforts through the “interior line of connectivity” concept amid the fast-changing, and complex tensions among global powers, digital security threats, regional conflicts, and the impacts of climate change.
He further elaborated on the “Interior Line of Connectivity” concept, which envisions Thailand as a strategic hub linking regional security initiatives to enhance regional security and connectivity in three key strategies:
General Songwit stressed that the “Interior Line of Connectivity” not only helps Thailand navigate security challenges but also strengthens its role as a facilitator of regional cooperation. He concluded with the proverb: “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”
Following the keynote speech, a panel discussion was held on “Human Security: The Role of Public Participation in National and Community Resilience.” The session explored:
The Asia Forward Series was launched on January 7, 2025, with the first session on “Thailand-Australia: Opportunities and Challenges in a Volatile World.” The initiative aims to foster public dialogue, share insights on Asia’s future, and highlight the role of Chulalongkorn University’s Institute of Asian Studies as a leading knowledge hub.
Associate Professor Dr. Pavika Sriratanaban, Director of the Institute of Asian Studies, emphasized that the Asia Forward Series demonstrates the university’s commitment to creating societal impact through academic expertise and public discourse. The forum serves as an incubator for future leaders, equipping them with insights and perspectives necessary for shaping a progressive and inclusive society.
Dr. Pavika announced plans to continue the Asia Forward Series with diverse themes. Each session will address critical regional and global issues while maintaining relevance to Asia’s evolving landscape and Thailand’s role. The initiative aims to inspire policy development, foster regional collaboration, and drive impactful discussions for the benefit of Asia’s future growth and stability.
Chula Architecture Students Win Best of Interior Design and Best of Graphic Design at Degree Shows 2024
Chula President Welcomes Oregon State University President
Chula Transportation Institute Co-hosts CU-GIZ 2025 Planning Workshop
CU Social Innovation Hub Calls for Research Proposals to Drive Sustainable Impact
The 3Rd A-CEC Annual-Chula Epilepsy Colloquium 2025: Advancing Everyday Epilepsy Care
from 8:30 A.M. - 4:00 P.M.
at the 1210 meeting room, 12th Floor, Zone B, Bhumisiri Mangkhalanusorn Building
Chula Law Student Team Wins the 2025 Philip C. Jessup International Law Moot Court Competition (National Round), Representing Thailand on the World Stage
Chula’s encouragement and support for research is excellent for teachers, students, and the public. Associate Professor Dr. Suchana Chavanich Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University
Chula’s encouragement and support for research is excellent for teachers, students, and the public.
Associate Professor Dr. Suchana Chavanich Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University
This website uses cookies to personalize content, provide the best user experience, and improve Chula website services.
ท่านสามารถเลือกการตั้งค่าคุกกี้โดยเปิด/ปิด คุกกี้ในแต่ละประเภทได้ตามความต้องการ ยกเว้น คุกกี้ที่จำเป็น
ประเภทของคุกกี้ที่มีความจำเป็นสำหรับการทำงานของเว็บไซต์ เพื่อให้คุณสามารถใช้เว็บไซต์ได้อย่างเป็นปกติ ท่านไม่สามารถปิดการทำงานของคุกกี้นี้ในระบบเว็บไซต์ของเราได้
คุกกี้ประเภทนี้จะทำการเก็บข้อมูลพฤติกรรมการใช้งานเว็บไซต์ของคุณ โดยมีจุดประสงค์คือนำข้อมูลมาวิเคราะห์เพื่อปรับปรุงและพัฒนาเว็บไซต์ให้มีคุณภาพ และสร้างประสบการณ์ที่ดีกับผู้ใช้งาน เพื่อให้เกิดประโยชน์สูงสุด หากท่านไม่ยินยอมให้เราใช้คุกกี้นี้ เราอาจไม่สามารถวัดผลเพื่อการปรับปรุงและพัฒนาเว็บไซต์ให้ดีขึ้นได้ Cookies Details