On December 19th, DIJ Principal Researcher David M. Malitz was invited to join a roundtable discussion with Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow and Japanese academics at the Royal Thai Embassy in Tokyo. As the head of the research cluster Japan in Transregional Perspective, David conducts research on Japan-Southeast Asia relations. The discussion covered regional developments, Japan-Thailand relations, and potential future cooperation between the two countries. Thailand is a key economic partner of Japan, hosting approximately 6,000 Japanese companies and over 70,000 Japanese nationals. In November 2022, bilateral relations were elevated to the status of a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The year 2027 will mark the 140th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Thailand.