The Ambassador of Israel to Thailand, H.E. Simon Roded, visited Mekong Institute on November 11, 2014. He was accompanied by Culture Officer, Ms. Kuntheera Stityuthakarn. Led by Dr. Watcharas Leelawath, MI Director, they were warmly welcomed by the MI staff. 

The Ambassador expressed that he was very eager to learn about MI and on how it operates to foster connectivity in the Greater Mekong Sub-region. Dr. Watcharas in turn presented the background and history of MI, highlighting the thematic areas and the next strategic plan of the institution. He also emphasized how invaluable human capacity building is in the region to achieve greater development. 

During the discussion, the Ambassador stated that he is eager to explore how the Israel administration can work with MI as they are looking for institutions along with universities in Thailand to implement bilateral activities. Both sides would be happy to collaborate and they also discussed the possibility of having an MOU in the next year. 

After the Ambassador’s visit to MI, he also visited Khon Kaen’s Wat Nhong Wang facilitated by MI staff. He then visited Sum Sung District where he learned more about Ban Mor’s organic farm.