By Office of Communications & Public Affairs
On 3 October 2025, H.E. Mr. Kentaro DOI, Vice Minister for Global Environmental Affairs, Ministry of the Environment, Japan (MOEJ), visited the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) for a courtesy meeting with AIT President Prof. Pai-Chi Li.
Welcoming H.E. Doi, AIT President Prof. Pai-Chi Li remarked, “Japan has been one of AIT’s strongest partners since 1969, supporting us through scholarships, infrastructure, and research. More than 900 students from 29 countries, including over 100 Japanese graduates, have benefited from this generosity. This partnership reflects our shared commitment to sustainable development, and we look forward to deepening our collaboration with Japan’s government and industries to address global challenges such as climate change and economic growth.” On behalf of the AIT community, Prof. Li extended heartfelt thanks for Japan’s continuous friendship and support.
Vice Minister Doi said, “Climate change is one of the most pressing global challenges of our time, and addressing it requires close collaboration between government, industry, and researchers. Institutions like AIT play a vital role in fostering knowledge and regional cooperation. By working together and harnessing innovation, including AI for more accurate forecasting, we can move from frameworks to real solutions. I look forward to advancing our shared commitment to sustainability.”
The Vice Minister was accompanied by Mr. Taiki Kono, Researcher, Climate Change Science and Adaptation Office, Global Environment Bureau, MOEJ; Ms. Yurie Osawa, First Secretary, Embassy of Japan in Thailand; and Ms. Somrapee Praneenij, Interpreter.
Representing AIT were Prof. Manukid Parnichkun, Vice President for Academic and Research (VPAR); Prof. Siddharth K. Jabade, Vice President for Administration and Development (VPAD); Mr. Karma Rana, Institute Secretary; Mr. Sanjeet Amatya, Director of Communications and Public Affairs; and Dr. Indra Kumari, Senior Program Officer, Office of International Affairs, Development and External Affairs.
The discussions focused on strengthening the long-standing Japan–AIT collaboration in education, research, and climate action. Highlights included Japan’s support since 1969 through scholarships, infrastructure, and initiatives, as well as AIT’s role as a regional hub. Both sides emphasized the importance of joint efforts among government, academia, and industry to tackle pressing challenges such as climate change, the circular economy, waste management, and air pollution.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to deepen partnerships, enhance regional cooperation, and accelerate the implementation of climate adaptation and sustainability initiatives. The delegation also toured AIT’s Regional Resource Centre for Asia and the Pacific (RRC.AP) and IDEA-EEM Laboratory, both supported by Japan, to learn more about ongoing research and applied projects.
