Chula Plants Orange Jasmine Trees to Strengthen Thailand–Central Asia Relations 

The Institute of Asian Studies, Chulalongkorn University, as Thailand’s Representative in the CICA Think Tank, in collaboration with the Secretariat of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA), organized a tree-planting activity under the “Planting Orange Jasmine Trees for a Sustainable Society: Strengthening Thailand–Central Asia Relations” project at Chulalongkorn University Centenary Park on Friday, February 27, 2026. 

Prof. Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University, and Ambassador Kairat Sarybay, Secretary-General of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA), jointly planted Orange Jasmine trees. Assoc. Prof. Pavika Sriratanaban, Director of the Institute of Asian Studies, delivered the report. His Excellency Mr. Elchin Bashirov, Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan to Thailand, gave a speech at the ceremony.

Assoc. Prof. Pavika Sriratanaban stated, “In addition to academic activities, planting trees for sustainability at Chulalongkorn University Centenary Park represents an important symbolic activity under the project name ‘The CICA Alley.’ This initiative responds to the invitation of the CICA Secretary-General to communicate cooperation and sustainability. The activity not only aligns with the university’s Sustainability Platform and Impactful Growth strategies but also provides a space for the Chulalongkorn community to collectively express the power of international friendship through a green area in the heart of the city.” 

On this occasion, Chulalongkorn University, through its Institute of Asian Studies, was selected to represent Thailand in carrying out this symbolic cooperation with CICA. The initiative reflects the role of Thai higher education institutions in concretely linking academic work, policy, and international collaboration. The planting of 28 Orange Jasmine trees also carries special significance, corresponding to the 28 CICA member states. The trees symbolize friendship, trust, and cooperation among member countries growing together on the same land. 

In a Thai cultural context, “Kaew” (orange jasmine) signifies purity, value, and moral goodness. Its white blossoms and gentle fragrance reflect peace, sincerity, and harmonious coexistence. The Orange Jasmine tree is therefore not merely an ornamental plant but a symbol of Positive Peace rooted in virtue, trust, and good relations. It conveys a shared message that “sustainability” and “cooperation” can truly be planted and grown through collective action across all sectors. 

The event was attended by university executives as well as administrators and representatives from various faculties, institutes, and departments, who joined together in planting the Orange Jasmine trees.