On 20 January 2025, the International Studies Center (ISC) and Mae Fah Luang University (MFU) co-organised a seminar on “Cross-Border Challenges in an Era of Transition: New Dimensions of Subregional Cooperation” at Kham Mok Luang Conference Room, Mae Fah Luang University. Professor Dr. Sujitra Wongkasemjit, Vice President of MFU, delivered the opening remarks which was followed by special talks on “Thailand’s Foreign Affairs: Continuity and Change” by Dr. Anuson Chinvanno, Director of ISC and “Strategic Competition and Global Transformation” by Associate Professor Dr. Jittipat Poonkham, Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and International Relations, Faculty of Political Science, Thammasat University.

          Four speakers, namely Assistant Professor Dr. Thanikul Chandra, Dean of the School of Social Innovation, MFU, Assistant Professor Dr. Apisom Intralawan, School of Management, MFU, Mr. Pattana Sittisombat, Chairman of the Committee for the Quadrangle Economic Development Project, Chamber of Commerce of the 10 Northern Provinces and Associate Professor Dr. Tawatchai Apidechkul, School of Health Science, MFU joined the panel discussion. The seminar provided a multidisciplinary platform for in-depth dialogue on emerging challenges and opportunities for cooperation in border areas and the Mekong  Sub-region. Discussions addressed key economic, social, environmental and security dimensions that directly affect local communities, with an emphasis on integrating diverse perspectives to inform collaborative approaches grounded in real-world contexts. The session was moderated by Mr. Seksan Anantasirikiat, ISC Senior Researcher, and attended by approximately 100 participants, including university executives, faculty members, students, representatives from government agencies, the private sector and civil society in Chiang Rai Province.