Thailand has sought Japanese support for four water management projects, with Tokyo showing particular interest in flood prevention initiatives for the Chao Phraya River basin and Hat Yai.
Deputy Prime Minister Songsak Thongsri disclosed the outcome of talks with Japanese ambassador to Thailand Masato Otaka at Government House on Wednesday, saying water management and flood prevention were among the key issues discussed.
Mr Songsak said the Japanese government and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (Jica) have long attached importance to water management and have been close partners in helping Thailand strengthen its flood prevention capabilities.
Japan provided technical assistance and advice following Thailand's devastating floods in 2011, and later extended support after flooding in Hat Yai last year, he said.
Mr Songsak said both sides agreed on the need for a systematic approach to water-related challenges. Thailand has proposed four technical cooperation projects to Jica: a decision-support system for the U-Tapao sub-basin; the development of a water-zoning and floodplain management system for the Chao Phraya basin; a project using advanced technology to assess sediment accumulation at the mouth of the Chao Phraya; and a public participation platform for water management.
