Bangkok: The Thai government is advancing collaboration with Myanmar to utilize satellite technology in combating wildfires and floods, aiming to enhance disaster and environmental management along their shared border.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Ratchada Thanadirek, Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, emphasized the government's commitment to cooperating with neighboring countries to address issues impacting both nations. The focus is on natural resource management, disaster prevention and mitigation, and environmental conservation-challenges that surpass the capabilities of any single country.
The recent official visit of Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, President of Myanmar, to Thailand marked a significant step forward in this cooperation. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA) and the Myanmar Space Agency. This agreement focuses on the peaceful application of Earth observation technology. Dr. Pakorn Apaphanth, Director of GISTDA, highlighted that the partnership will leverage satellite data and Earth observation technology for improved management of natural resources, environmental preservation, and disaster response. The collaboration involves sharing knowledge, data, and experiences to enhance monitoring and decision-making.
This initiative allows Thailand and Myanmar to jointly use satellite data to track wildfires, haze, floods, droughts, deforestation, and natural resource management along their border. Such data enables relevant agencies to monitor, assess, and plan responses more efficiently, thereby minimizing the adverse effects on the lives, livelihoods, and economies of both nations.