The British Embassy in Thailand welcomed Lord Nick Herbert, Chair of the Global TB Caucus and Member of the UK House of Lords to Bangkok. He met with Thai parliamentarians and health experts to explore collaboration through the Asia-Pacific TB Caucus, which connects legislators to share knowledge, advance accountability, and drive domestic investment in health.
The visit also provided the opportunity to exchange views on the shared commitment between the UK and Thailand to Global Fund replenishment and efforts to tackle tuberculosis, — a leading cause of death among people with HIV and a major contributor to antimicrobial resistance. It highlights the role of political commitment and universal health coverage in achieving the goal to end TB by 2030.
Thailand has made strong progress, supported by domestic investment, robust health systems, and active engagement with the Global Fund – as both donor and implementer. Since 2003, the Global Fund has contributed $624 million to Thailand’s fight against HIV/ AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria. With 71 % of TB cases diagnosed and treated, and 92 % of TB -HIV co-infected individuals received antiretroviral therapy.
Lord Nick Herbert, Chair of the Global TB Caucus, said: “Thailand has made real progress in fighting TB but the disease isn’t beaten yet. With sustained political leadership, domestic investment and new technology, we have the chance of beating tuberculosis once and for all, saving thousands of lives in Thailand a year.”
Anna Pearson, Chargé d’Affaires, British Embassy Bangkok, added: “Through the Global Fund, we are advancing science, innovation, and health security, ensuring no one is left behind. Contributing to the Global Fund not only strengthens global health systems but also promotes economic growth and stability.”
Dr Somlerk Jeungsmarn, Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Public Health, Thailand: “Our partnership with the UK is our commitment to a TB-free Thailand. We will save lives with smarter service delivery, find every case faster with AI-powered diagnostics, and pioneer new solutions through a national genomics research agenda. We are turning data-driven strategy into zero TB.”
Dr Ochit Kiatkongchuchai, Chair, House of Representatives Committee on Public Health: “We hope the Global Fund will support funding and provide access to technology for low-income communities in the provinces, enabling them to benefit from disease prevention, treatment and on-going monitoring of tuberculosis in Thailand”
Mr Promboon Panitchpakdi, Executive Director of Raks Thai Foundation: “We believe that ending TB in Thailand requires ensuring that no one—regardless of nationality or status—is left behind. Migrant workers and their families are an essential part of our communities and our economy. When they can access diagnosis, treatment, and care without fear, society becomes healthier and stronger.”
