Thailand is one of nine new members elected to the World Heritage Committee at the 22nd General Assembly of the State Parties to the WHC meeting, being held from November 27^th to the 28^th at UNESCO headquarters in Paris.

The other new members are Egypt, Ethiopia, Mali, Nigeria, Oman, Russian Federation, Saudi Arabia and South Africa.

At the meeting, Thailand nominated an expert in natural resources and cultures as a candidate for the vacant seat on the WHC, representing the Asia-Pacific region.  From 193 member countries, the Thai representative won with 156 votes.

Mrs. Rawiwan Phuridet, secretary-general of the Office of Natural Resources and Environment Policy and Planning, hailed Thailand’s election to the WHC, saying that this will enhance the country’s role, relations and cooperation with other countries in international organizations.

Next, she said, Thailand must be prepared to assume its role as a member of the WHC next May in Paris, and for the meeting the following month in China, for the listing of new World Heritage sites. Thailand will propose the Kaeng Krachan forest complex in Phetchaburi province and the Phu Phra Bat historical park in Udon Thani province for listing.