On 6 June 2023, the Department of Information, Ministry of Foreign Affairs hosted the “Second MFA – Foreign Media Armchair Series”, to engage leading foreign journalists in Thailand in an informal exchange on topical issues of the day. Following on the success of the inaugural forum in April, the Ministry was honoured to host Mr. Dominic Faulder, Associate Editor of Nikkei Asia this time around. Mr. Faulder is a journalist, author and editor who has been a long-time observer of Thai politics and society and also highly-regarded for his role in important publications, including as editor of “The King of Thailand in World Focus” (2010), senior editor of “King Bhumibol Adulyadej: A Life’s Work” (2011), and author of “Anand Panyarachun and the Making of Modern Thailand” (2018).

Following opening remarks by Mrs. Kanchana Patarachoke, Director-General of the Department of Information and MFA Spokesperson, Mrs. Maratee Nalita Andamo, Director of the News Division, held a conversation with Mr. Faulder, who addressed a vast array of issues ranging from politics, both local and regional, as well as perspectives on Thailand’s image, and the challenges and potential in national development. Mr. Faulder’s views drew upon decades of experience being based in Thailand and the region, and included many uniquely memorable moments throughout his career.

The Ministry values its engagement with the foreign media community in Thailand through activities such as these which encourage meaningful exchanges and reflections, and also looks forward to continuing this Series with another installation (#3) in the near future.