On 3 July 2025, the International Studies Center (ISC) organised a book launch and panel discussion on the occasion of the 50^th diplomatic anniversary between Thailand and the People’s Republic of China (PRC). The event was kicked off by the launching of two books, namely “Negotiations to Establish the Diplomatic Relations with the People’s Republic of China 1973-1975: Draft Reports by Tej Bunnag”, which contains draft reports by Dr. Tej Bunnag, Secretary-General of the Thai Red Cross Society and Chairperson of the ISC Advisory Board, during the process to establish the diplomatic relations with the PRC. These drafts belong personally to Dr. Tej who kindly allowed the ISC to publish them for the first time. The second book was “China through Thai Eyes”, which was a collection of academic articles analysing various aspects of Thailand-PRC relations and edited by Professor Dr. Sitthiphon Kruarattikan, President of Thammasat University Faculty Senate.

The book launch was followed by a panel discussion on “Looking Forward: Future Directions of Thailand-China Relations” moderated by Mr. Seksan Anantasirikiat, ISC Senior Researcher. Three speakers, namely Associate Professor Dr. Kornphanat Tungkeunkunt, Thammasat University, Ms. Kulthirath Pakawachkrailers, President of Thai e-Commerce Association (THECA) and Ms. Watcharin Setakudan, Vice President of International News Department, Thai News Agency, MCOT, shared their views on emerging issues, opportunities and challenges in the relationship. Over 100 participants from the government organisations, the private sector, the media, scholars and university students attended the event.