BANGKOK, Thailand – Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior Anutin Charnvirakul has attended session 2 of the 32nd APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting under the theme “Preparing a Future-Ready Asia-Pacific,” where he highlighted the need for the region to reinforce resilience and adaptability amid rapidly changing global conditions.
The Prime Minister noted that for more than three decades, APEC has been a driving force in positioning the Asia-Pacific as a major engine of global economic growth. However, the region now faces accelerating transformations stemming from technological advancement, demographic shifts, and climate change—factors that require coordinated and forward-looking responses. He emphasized that APEC must continue to uphold its role as a region of stability, innovation, and preparedness for the future.
The Prime Minister proposed three key approaches to prepare the region for the future. First, he emphasized the importance of strengthening regional cooperation and ensuring inclusive growth. Thailand believes that deeper economic integration will allow all sectors of society to benefit, particularly vulnerable groups, and will help ensure that development is shared broadly and fairly across the region.
Second, he underscored the importance of positioning APEC as a leader in the development of artificial intelligence (AI) and the digital transition. This involves ensuring trust, safety, accountability, and equitable access in the use of digital technologies. He noted that the gains of digital transformation must be distributed fairly in order to strengthen human capacity and support sustainable economic growth in the region. He also stressed the urgency of combating cybercrime, including online fraud and human trafficking, which require collective action through shared intelligence, aligned legal frameworks, and enhanced public awareness.
Lastly, Thailand emphasized the importance of empowering all groups in society, particularly as the region moves toward an aging demographic. This includes promoting inclusive employment opportunities, ensuring effective and accessible healthcare systems, and supporting lifelong learning so that citizens of all ages are equipped to contribute to and benefit from regional growth.
The Prime Minister concluded by reaffirming that in an interconnected and unpredictable world, no economy can progress alone. He stated that if APEC economies move forward together, the forum will continue to serve as a key driver of global progress. While recognizing the challenges that lie ahead, he emphasized that APEC will advance collectively—through strong cooperation and shared purpose—to build a region that is connected, sustainable, and prepared for the future. (NNT)
