France-Thailand Bilateral Satellite Cooperation for Climate Monitoring
Keywords:
Climate monitoring, France–Thailand space partnership, Theos-2 satellite program, Technology transferAbstract
Climate change is a global challenge that demands international cooperation. No single nation can tackle climate threats alone, making collaborative efforts and technology sharing essential. This paper examines the France–Thailand partnership in deploying Earth observation satellite technology for climate monitoring as a case study of effective bilateral cooperation. France, a leading supporter of international climate initiatives, has invested heavily in climate-related assistance. Thailand, highly vulnerable to climate impacts, has embraced sustainable development policies (such as the bio-circular-green economy model) that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Over the past few years, the two countries have deepened cooperation through joint innovation programs and satellite projects to enhance climate data capabilities. This study analyzes key drivers of success in the Franco-Thai collaboration-including policy alignment, technology transfer (exemplified by co-development of the THEOS-2 Earth observation satellite), and capacity-building initiatives-and discusses how these efforts support climate action objectives. Lessons learned from this bilateral cooperation offer insights for other nations seeking to leverage space technology and joint initiatives to advance climate monitoring and resilience.
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