Bangkok: The Prime Minister revealed that Microsoft is ready to invest $1 billion to upgrade the skills of Thai people to support government services, reduce digital costs, and boost AI infrastructure. Mr. Brad Smith, Executive Vice President and President of Microsoft Corporation, and his delegation paid a courtesy call on Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, during their visit to Thailand.
According to Thai News Agency, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul praised Microsoft's role in driving innovation, which has contributed to Thailand's digital development. He reaffirmed the government's commitment to strengthening cooperation and supporting Microsoft's operations in Thailand to enhance the country's digital competitiveness and improve the efficiency of government services.
Brad Smith reaffirmed Microsoft's commitment to Thailand, the Thai people, and the Thai government. Microsoft is preparing to announce plans for an additional $1 billion investment in Thailand over the next two years in cloud and AI infrastructure, along with collaboration with the Thai private sector and support for human resource development. All of this reflects Microsoft's confidence in the future of Thailand.
On this occasion, both sides discussed and exchanged views on the following important issues: In terms of investment, Microsoft's Prime Minister plans to invest in cloud and AI infrastructure in Thailand, aligning with the country's economic and digital development strategy. The government supports investment in data center infrastructure and encourages Microsoft to use Thailand as a regional hub. Thailand is well-positioned, particularly in its geographical location at the heart of the region. Brad Smith affirmed his support for the government's economic and digital policies and the development of a long-term partnership with Thailand to create sustainable mutual benefits.
The Prime Minister reiterated his support for cooperation between Microsoft, the Thai private sector, and the government to drive Thailand towards becoming a digital hub. He believes that this collaboration will be a key driver in propelling Thailand towards becoming an AI-First Nation in the region.
At the end, the Prime Minister reiterated Thailand's commitment to human resource development, particularly education and workforce skills. He thanked Microsoft for its dedication to promoting digital and AI skills among Thais, especially through teacher empowerment, workforce skill upgrading, and the development of a new generation of data center and technology professionals. Mr. Brad Smith stated that the global adoption of AI is increasing rapidly, particularly in Asia, including Southeast Asia, where AI usage has skyrocketed. Microsoft is ready to support the government through its ongoing projects, including training programs for teachers, non-profit organizations, and government officials to ensure access to AI skills.
Afterwards, the Prime Minister departed Government House to attend to duties at IMPACT Forum, Muang Thong Thani.