On August 15, Ambassador of Thailand to the U.S., Dr. Suriya Chindawongse, along with Ms. Somjai Taphaopong, Consul-General in New York, Mr. Nanthapol Sudbanthad, Director of the BOI New York Office, and Mr. Thitidej Tularak, Minister-Counselor from the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation of Thailand, met with Dr. Farnam Jahanian, President of Carnegie Mellon University (CMU), in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

The meeting focused on economic development, workforce training, and international collaboration, particularly in technology and education. The discussions highlighted the importance of developing a strong workforce, especially in STEM fields, to support Thailand’s growing industries including the areas of semiconductors, digital economy and AI.

Ambassador Suriya highlighted the need for closer cooperation between Thailand and the U.S. in technology and education, with a focus on enhancing competitiveness, workforce upskilling and sustainable development.

Dr. Jahanian emphasized several key points such as supporting strengthening of the educational system to better prepare students for future job markets, improving digital infrastructure to support a new economy and suggesting opportunities for U.S. businesses to engage in Thailand's workforce upskilling and economic development.

In a separate event, Ambassador Suriya, Consul-General Somjai, and Director Nanthapol also engaged in a lively Q&A session with Thai students at CMU, discussing topics such as the semiconductor workforce program, skill development plans, sustainability initiatives, and BCG strategies. The conversation also touched on social sciences research collaboration opportunities, educational system planning, and the impact of the current global situation on Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in Thailand, including rules, regulations, and policymaking.

The meetings in Pittsburgh represent a vital step in strengthening educational and technological ties between Thailand and the United States, paving the way for a future of shared progress and sustained prosperity.