Launch of the New Colombo Plan in Thailand

 Speech by Foreign Minister Julie Bishop

His Excellency General Thanasak, Ambassadors, distinguished guests, friends of Australia, friends of Thailand. I’m absolutely delighted to be here today at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to launch the New Colombo Plan in Thailand.

The New Colombo Plan is a programme that is very important to the Australian Government, and it’s one of which I am personally very proud.

Australia and Thailand already have longstanding connections, and a good understanding of each other through our very strong people-to-people links.

Colombo Plan alumni recall fondly their time spent in Australia, and I think they recognise the value of their experience in shaping their careers and their lives.

Many of those who studied under the Colombo Plan have occupied senior positions in government, in business and other sectors of society throughout the region.

2015 is the first year of the New Colombo Plan’s full roll out.

One Australian student – who featured on the video – David Coleman, has received a prestigious New Colombo Plan scholarship to study in Thailand. But from July this year, he will study agricultural science at Mahidol University for two semesters, before undertaking a research internship in Laos.

In addition, over 160 students are being funded to study in Thailand under the New Colombo Plan mobility program, for courses less than 12 months.

I look forward to working closely with you to ensure the programme is a success in Thailand.

Thank you.