On 5 April 2023, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs hosted an informal exchange with a leading foreign journalist in Thailand, launching the first-ever “MFA – Foreign Media Armchair Series”. The Series is envisioned to provide a relaxed format for two-way communication and a candid exchange of views between notable members of the foreign media in Thailand and MFA officials.

Mrs. Kanchana Patarachoke, Director-General of the Department of Information and MFA Spokesperson, opened the event at MFA’s Recreation Room, which was followed by a conversation moderated by Ms. Maratee Nalita Andamo, the Director of the News Division with Mr. Jonathan Head, the first invited speaker to the MFA – Foreign Media Armchair Series.  Currently the South East Asia Correspondent of the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), Mr. Head is a veteran journalist with extensive experience working both in Thailand and throughout Asia. The conversation ensued on a wide range of issues and was followed by an engaging Q & A session, proving to be a useful and refreshing exchange of views and perspectives on issues of common interest concerning Thailand, the region and the world.

Given Thailand’s position as a key hub for foreign media within the region, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is pleased to continue to support, and engage with, the foreign media community in Thailand and looks forward to the second conversation under the Series coming up soon.