Held in Bangkok under the theme “Partners in Progress: Shaping a Green and Digital Future,” the 15th Civil Service Exchange Programme (CSEP) marked a milestone in advancing Thailand–Singapore cooperation in sustainability, digital transformation, and human capital development
On 22 October 2025, H.E. Mr Sihasak Phuangketkeow, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, and H.E. Dr Vivian Balakrishnan, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Singapore, jointly presided over the opening ceremony of the 15th Civil Service Exchange Programme (CSEP) in Bangkok. The event, held under the theme “Partners in Progress: Shaping a Green and Digital Future,” highlighted the strong and enduring partnership between Thailand and Singapore as the two nations celebrate 60 years of diplomatic relations this year.
In his remarks, Minister Sihasak emphasised that the long-standing friendship between Thailand and Singapore continues to play an essential role in supporting mutual progress and regional development. He noted that the CSEP provides a valuable platform for in-depth interactions between Thai and Singaporean civil servants, facilitating the exchange of ideas and best practices that have strengthened bilateral cooperation over the years. As both countries prepare for the future, he underlined the importance of deepening collaboration in key areas such as sustainable growth, digital economy, and combatting transnational crime, which remain high on the national agendas of both nations.
Image by Royal Thai Embassy, Singapore
Following the opening ceremony, Ms Eksiri Pintaruchi, Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs of Thailand, co-chaired the 15th Plenary CSEP Meeting with Mr Albert Chua, Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs of Singapore. During the meeting, both sides agreed to enhance collaboration under three major areas of partnership. They reaffirmed their commitment to sustainability through joint initiatives on carbon credit trading, environmentally friendly projects, and technology collaborations aligned with Thailand’s BCG Economy Model and the Singapore Green Plan 2030. The discussions also covered an agreement on rice trade to strengthen Singapore’s food security and cooperation in energy development.
In the sphere of economic growth and social development, both sides discussed cooperation in the digital economy, supported by the Memorandum of Understanding in the Field of Digital Economy and Thailand’s accession to the Digital Economy Partnership Agreement (DEPA). They also explored opportunities to enhance cruise tourism, public health cooperation, and cultural and media exchanges, while reaffirming their joint commitment to addressing transnational crime. The programme further emphasised human capital development through enhanced educational cooperation from elementary to tertiary levels, as well as legal and judicial collaboration, labour cooperation, and civil service capacity-building, reinforcing a shared dedication to public service excellence.
The 15th Civil Service Exchange Programme reaffirmed the shared vision of Thailand and Singapore to advance a partnership that is forward-looking, resilient, and inclusive. As both nations navigate the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly evolving world, their collaboration in sustainability, innovation, and human development continues to exemplify a strong and enduring friendship that contributes to regional peace and prosperity.
Source: Royal Thai Embassy, Singapore
