Thailand-Lao People's Democratic Republic Relations Under the Cooperation on Technology Transfer for Capacity Building in Environmental Radioactivity and Radiation Dose Measurement

Abstract

This research aimed to study 1) relations between Thailand-Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) 2) factors affecting the cooperation between Thailand and Lao PDR on Technology Transfer to enhance the capacity building in environmental radioactivity and radiation dose measurement and 3) outcome of the cooperation between Thailand and Lao PDR. Qualitative research and in-depth interviews were applied in this research. The results of the research indicated that relations between Thailand-Lao PDR was technical assistance which Thailand acted as Donor, while Lao PDR as Recipient Country. Factors affecting the cooperation were 1) Thai policy to enhance safety and security on nuclear and radiation 2) mutual concern of Thailand and Lao PDR on nuclear threat. 3) the potential of donor and recipient country. Outcomes of the cooperation between Thailand and Lao PDR were as follows 1) Thailand has been recognized as a highly potential country in the field of technology transfer on environmental radioactivity and radiation dose measurement at international level. 2) increased Lao PDR personnel capacity in environmental radioactivity and radiation dose measurement 3) environmental radioactivity and radiation warning system was established for ASEAN members, they could utilize data from Lao PDR environmental radioactivity and radiation station and 4) enhance cooperation between ASEAN and other International Organizations. The research suggested that Thailand should expand cooperation with other ASEAN countries on nuclear and radiation monitoring technology transfer.