Fukuoka Prefectural Assembly Delegation Visits Bangkok to Strengthen Ties and Drive Cooperation under the "One Health" Policy

BANGKOK, 15 January 2026 – A delegation from the Fukuoka Prefectural Assembly, led by Mr. Isao Kurauchi, Chairperson of the Fukuoka Prefectural Assembly, paid a courtesy call on the Governor of Bangkok and the executive members of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA). The visit aimed to reaffirm the robust sister-city relationship and discuss future collaborative frameworks. The Bangkok side extended a warm welcome, emphasizing that the bond with Fukuoka remains one of its closest and most significant international partnerships.

In his remarks, Mr. Kurauchi expressed his gratitude for the hospitality and highlighted that the core driver of this evolving relationship is the "One Health" policy. This concept is built on the fundamental principle that "the health of people, animals, and the environment is inextricably linked." For humanity to thrive, the planet must be healthy; a pristine environment ensures animal well-being, which ultimately safeguards human health. As the President of the World Veterinary Association (WVA), Mr. Kurauchi is deeply committed to championing this vision on the global stage and has proposed this framework as a solution to the urban challenges currently facing Bangkok.

The Governor of Bangkok addressed the operational challenges regarding the city’s large stray dog and cat population, which impacts the balance of co-existence between residents and animals. To manage this issue, the BMA has introduced new regulatory measures requiring pet owners to register their pets and undergo microchipping. These regulations also define suitable living conditions for pets, though the measures continue to face diverse public feedback and criticism. Given the complexity of the issue, Bangkok expressed a strong interest in learning from Fukuoka’s expertise and best practices to optimize policy implementation.

In response, the Fukuoka delegation expressed a sincere commitment to exchanging knowledge and sharing Japan’s proven successes, specifically in the following areas:

• Rabies Control: Japan has maintained a rabies-free status for nearly 70 years. The delegation is prepared to share the strategic measures and policies that led to this achievement, serving as a model for managing one of the most dangerous zoonotic diseases.
• Microchipping Implementation: Japan has successfully mandated microchipping for dogs and is currently expanding the requirement to cats. The delegation offered to provide guidance to alleviate public concerns regarding animal health, confirming that microchips do not harm animals when administered correctly according to medical standards.

Mr. Kurauchi reaffirmed Fukuoka’s readiness to provide full consultation and support to Bangkok in seeking sustainable solutions. This visit marks a new era of cooperation focused on tangible and lasting results, utilizing the "One Health" framework to bridge global visions with local action—ranging from public health management to environmental preservation.

BANGKOK, 15 January 2026 – A delegation from the Fukuoka Prefectural Assembly, led by Mr. Isao Kurauchi, Chairperson of the Fukuoka Prefectural Assembly, paid a courtesy call on the Governor of Bangkok and the executive members of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA).

Fukuoka Prefectural Assembly Delegation Visits Bangkok to Strengthen Ties and Drive Cooperation under the "One Health" Policy