Thailand Strengthens World Heritage Role at UNESCO Forum
Thailand's delegation met UNESCO officials at the World Heritage Committee session in Busan to discuss conservation efforts and advance the country's heritage preservation role internationally. The talks highlighted recent inscriptions and
On July 26, 2026, Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suchat Chomklin, heading Thailand's delegation to the 48th session of the World Heritage Committee, held talks with Mr. Lazare Eloundou Assomo, Director of the UNESCO World Heritage Centre, at the BEXCO conference center in Busan, South Korea. The delegation included senior officials from the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry.
Chomklin stated that the government prioritizes conservation of natural resources and cultural heritage while elevating Thailand's role on the international stage. He noted that the ministry is managing world heritage sites according to international standards while balancing conservation, development, and local community well-being.
The discussions covered conservation and management of world heritage sites, and strengthened ties between Thailand and the UNESCO World Heritage Centre. Chomklin thanked the Centre and its advisory organizations for supporting Thailand in academic, technological, and cooperative matters, particularly following the inscription of Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahaviharn in Nakhon Si Thammarat as a world heritage site.
Chomklin also mentioned Thailand's upcoming proposal to inscribe "Chiang Mai: Capital of Lanna" as a world heritage site next year, and reported progress on the Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai forest complex site. The World Heritage Centre Director commended Thailand's long commitment and understanding of the process, requesting Thailand share its experience with other nations seeking inscription.
The meeting reflected Thailand's active role in advancing world heritage conservation internationally and strengthened the partnership between Thailand and the UNESCO World Heritage Centre.
