In a bid to deepen international cooperation and learn from global best practices, the Bangkok Metropolitan Council (BMC) has embarked on a diplomatic visit to London, reaffirming ties with the London Assembly and exploring future collaboration. Surachit “Dr. John” Phongsinghvithya, President of the BMC, led the delegation to London City Hall for an official meeting with Andrew Boff, Chairman of the London Assembly, and its members—responding to a formal invitation and marking a significant step forward in city-to-city engagement.
Surachit “Dr. John” Phongsinghvithya, President of the Bangkok Metropolitan Council (BMC), led a delegation to London City Hall for an official meeting with Andrew Boff, Chairman of the London Assembly, and its members.“This visit responds to an invitation from the Chairman of the London Assembly and marks a significant step in reinforcing relations between the two councils,” Dr. John said.
He emphasised that the primary aim is not only to exchange expertise in city governance and urban development but also to support the future operations of the BMC. Notably, it has been over two decades since Bangkok and London last signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
Dr. John expressed BMC’s intent to seize this opportunity to strengthen ties, with the goal of establishing a new MoU to formalise future collaboration. The London Assembly will consult with the Mayor of London regarding the potential development of this renewed partnership.
Earlier in the day, Andrew Boff invited the Bangkok delegation to attend Mayor’s Question Time (MQT)—a public forum where all 25 London Assembly members pose questions to Mayor Sadiq Khan on matters of public administration. The MQT is held ten times annually and serves as a vital accountability mechanism.
The BMC delegation included:
- Viput Srivaurai, First Vice President of BMC
- Narunanmon Huangsap, BMC Member for Khlong Sam Wa District
- Chayada Wiphatphumiprathet, BMC Member for Khan Na Yao District
- Rattikan Kaewkerdmee, BMC Member for Sai Mai District
- Wirat Meenchainan, BMC Member for Minburi District
- Suthichai Weerakunsunthorn, BMC Member for Chom Thong District
- Amnat Panphuek, BMC Member for Bang Khae District
- Krit Kongwutipanya, BMC Member for Phasi Charoen District
- Takan Sunontawut, BMC Member for Lak Si District
This high-level meeting underscores the mutual commitment to fostering collaboration in urban development and lays the groundwork for stronger cooperation between Bangkok and London in the years to come.
