On 23 September 2025, Ms. Somrudee Poopornanake, Acting Director-General of the Department of European Affairs, delivered an opening remarks at the “Thailand - Ireland Forum: Advancing Technology and Digital Partnership,” held on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Thailand and Ireland, at Pullman King Power Hotel. The opening remarks were also delivered by H.E. Mr. Patrick Bourne, Ambassador of Ireland to Thailand, and H.E. Mr. Nadhavathna Krishnamra, Ambassador of Thailand to the United Kingdom and Ambassador-desginate of Thailand to Ireland.

The Forum was aimed to further strengthen digital cooperation and collaboration on fostering an enabling ecosystem for advanced technology and innovation between Thailand and Ireland, through the exchange of best practices, policy directions, and expert recommendations. Distinguished speakers from Thailand, Ireland, and the European Union included Dr. Krithpaka Boonfueng, Director of the National Innovation Agency; Ms. Apitchaya Srikacha, Director of the Service Industry Division, Eastern Economic Corridor Office; Dr. Hugh O’Connell, Managing Director of ICDL Thailand; and Mrs. Renita Bhaskar, Minister Counsellor, Head of the Economic and Trade Section, European Union Delegation to Thailand. The event attracted more than 200 representatives from government agencies, the private sector, and academic institutions from Thailand and abroad.