The Japanese government would like Thailand to outline a working policy on extending the rail system and developing satellites in a new cooperation effort.
Tokyo's plans to work with Bangkok were unveiled yesterday when Japanese ambassador Shigekazu Sato raised the issue during his visit to Deputy Prime Minister Yongyuth Yuthavong at Government House.
The Japanese government is aware of the Thai government's plans to extend the country's rail network and develop its space technology.
However, it wants to know "what Bangkok thinks in terms of who it will cooperate with — Japan or China", Mr Yongyuth quoted Mr Sato as saying.
He said he told Mr Sato the government would look into the strengths and weaknesses of each country before making a decision.
"We will carefully consider matters regarding international cooperation," Mr Yongyuth said.
As for satellite technology, Thailand ultimately aims to make a satellite of its own, he added.
The one launched seven years ago was made using technology from France under a cooperation arrangement.
If Bangkok chooses to work with Tokyo, Thai scientists and engineers should be involved in the development so they can learn about the advances in technology, he said.
Mr Yongyuth said an arrangement could take shape similar to the Japanese-Thai car manufacturing hubs, which export vehicles to countries in the region. "That is a good relationship that we have to maintain," he said.
Mr Yongyuth said he is also thinking of ways to improve the lives of the increasing number of elderly people in Thailand.
"I think about making robots to help the elderly and disabled people," said the deputy prime minister, who oversees scientific affairs.
Japan is an expert in robotic sciences, so it will be a good opportunity for Thailand to learn from Japan in this area, he said.
Mr Yongyuth also raised the topic of Japanese firms expanding their production bases to Thailand.