Thailand’s ambitious 3 Airports High-Speed Rail project nears contract finalization amid post-pandemic infrastructure revival. PATTAYA, Thailand – The Eastern Economic Corridor Office (EEC) is closely monitoring the progress as the Office of the Attorney General reviews the revised contract for the 224-billion-baht high-speed rail project connecting three airports — Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi, and U-Tapao. The review is expected to be completed by mid-June, after which the draft contract will be submitted for consideration by the EEC Policy Committee. It is anticipated that the Cabinet will give final approval to sign the amended contract by August 2025, ending a delay of more than five years. Mr. Chula Sukmanop, Secretary-General of the EEC Office, said that the project has been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, which stalled many infrastructure investments, including this high-speed rail project owned by the State Railway of Thailand and concessioned to Asia Era One Company Limited (CP Group) for 50 years. In parallel, the EEC Policy Committee has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Office of the Higher Education Commission, Science, Research and Innovation to develop an investment ecosystem and build a skilled workforce for targeted industries within the EEC. This effort supports investments in advanced technology, innovation, and strengthens research and development networks within Thailand. The EEC Secretary-General noted that the focus on developing a high-competency workforce meets the needs of manufacturing and service sectors including biofuel and biochemical, aviation and logistics, digital, comprehensive medical, and robotics industries. So far, these initiatives have generated more than 10,684 new jobs and trained 445,967 people through 1,205 courses. (TNA)