On 25 August 2020, the International Studies Center (ISC) and the Institute of East Asian Studies (IEAS), Thammasat University co-hosted a seminar entitled “General Chatichai Choonhavan in Contemporary Thai Diplomacy and Politics” to celebrate the centennial of the birth of General Chatichai. The event was officially opened by Associate Professor Kesinee Vitoonchat, President of Thammasat University. Present at the event, apart from academics and former officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, were General Chatichai’s relatives. 

       In three separate sessions, panelists discussed General Chatichai’s roles as a diplomat and a politician. In the 1960s, General Chatichai served as ambassador to several countries. Later he served as Foreign Minister as well as a number of political positions including the Prime Minister of Thailand (1988 – 1991). Professor Noranit Setabutr, Fellow of the Royal Society and Chairman of Thammasat University Council, Dr. Tej Bunnag, former Foreign Minister and Chairman of the Advisory Board of ISC and Mr. Sanguan Lewmanomont, Associate Fellow of the Royal Society and member of the Board of IEAS recalled their memories of their acquaintance with General Chatichai and gave personal views on his accomplishments. The panels were moderated respectively by Assistant Professor Akkaraphong Khamkhun, Dean of Pridi Banomyong International College, Thammasat University; Dr. Anuson Chinvanno, Director of ISC and Associate Professor Dr. Sitthiphon Kruarattikan. Director of IEAS.

       This event was formerly scheduled for March 2020, but had to be postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The seminar was participated by a limited number of invited audience as per hygienic regulations. The event was broadcasted live on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Saranrom Radio and IEAS Facebook pages.