BANGKOK, Thailand – The Cabinet has approved the first Political Declaration (Zero Draft), reaffirming Thailand’s support for accelerating the implementation of the New Urban Agenda. It also authorized the head of the Thai delegation to endorse the declaration at the High-Level Meeting on the Midterm Review of the New Urban Agenda, to be held at United Nations Headquarters in New York on July 16-17. The declaration outlines seven priorities for sustainable urban development, including reducing inequality, addressing housing challenges, supporting vulnerable groups, promoting economic growth through small and medium-sized enterprises, improving workforce skills, enhancing disaster resilience, expanding the role of local governments, encouraging participation from the private sector and civil society, and applying digital technology and artificial intelligence to urban management.
According to Deputy Government Spokesperson Patdarasm Thongsaluaykorn, the declaration will be adopted without a formal signing ceremony. Thailand’s participation is set to create opportunities for the exchange of knowledge, best practices, and technology while expanding cooperation in sustainable urban development. The government said the declaration will also help guide future urban planning, housing, and sustainable development policies in Thailand. Implementation will be monitored through mechanisms established in cooperation with the United Nations to assess progress and accountability. (NNT)
