The Faculty of Agricultural Production at Maejo University has reaffirmed its international excellence in academia and agriculture. Assistant Professor Dr. Preeda Natewate, Director of the Office of Academic Administration and Development—who also serves as a faculty member for the Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy programs in Interdisciplinary Agriculture—along with Associate Professor Dr. Jeeraporn Intasarn, a program coordinator and expert in Soil Science, were selected to participate in the global seminar, "Seminar on Agricultural South-South Cooperation Project Management for BRI Countries." The event took place from June 23 to July 7, 2026, in Wuhan, Hubei Province, People's Republic of China. The participants included 62 experts from 14 countries, with full financial support provided by the Consulate-General of the People's Republic of China in Chiang Mai. This notable achievement serves as a testament to the recognized potential of the faculty members from the Faculty of Agricultural Production at Maejo University.
During the seminar, Assistant Professor Dr. Preeda Natewate was honored with the distinction of representing all international participants by delivering a speech at the closing ceremony on July 6, 2026. In his address, he shared his vision, stating, "As a representative of the Kingdom of Thailand..." It is a great honor and a distinct pleasure to have the opportunity to speak at the closing ceremony of the “Seminar on Agricultural South-South Cooperation Project Management for BRI Countries.” I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Hubei Vocational College of Biotechnology for organizing such a valuable seminar. I also extend my thanks to the government authorities of the People’s Republic of China, the Embassy of China, and all those involved for their support of international cooperation and for the warm hospitality extended to us throughout the program. Over the past 14 days, more than 60 participants from 14 countries have had the opportunity to learn, exchange experiences, and forge friendships through lectures, discussions, and field visits.
Every activity was exceptionally well-prepared, reflecting a genuine commitment to sharing knowledge and experience for our collective development. Beyond the exchange of agricultural expertise, we have built mutual understanding, trust, and international friendship—the essential foundations for sustainable cooperation. Perhaps the most valuable takeaway from this seminar is not merely the knowledge gained in agriculture or project management, but the insight into a development approach that integrates research, innovation, and practical application—all aimed at improving people’s quality of life, ensuring food security, and fostering sustainable national development.
Another aspect that left a deep impression on me is the concept of “protecting agricultural land and ensuring food security for the people.” This principle underscores the importance of developing the agricultural sector in tandem with the conservation of natural resources and the environment—a framework that many nations can learn from and adapt to suit their own unique contexts. I am confident that the knowledge, experience, and collaborative networks gained from this seminar will not conclude with the end of the project today. Instead, they will serve as a foundation for even stronger cooperation, working together to build a secure and sustainable future for the agricultural sector—one that brings tangible benefits to the people of all our nations.
In closing, on behalf of the Kingdom of Thailand, I would like to express my gratitude to the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Chiang Mai, the Hubei Vocational College of Biotechnology, as well as the organizers, speakers, staff, and all participants who have contributed to the resounding success of this project. I wish you all good health, continued professional success, and a safe journey home.
Thank you all.