National —
Mr. Thanakorn Wangboonkongchana, the government spokesperson, released details about the US-ASEAN Special Summit while Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O’Cha is on his way back to Thailand.
According to the spokesperson, the PM was grateful for the US president’s participation in the US-ASEAN Special Summit to reinforce the 45-year relationship between US and ASEAN members in the midst of the ongoing crises across the globe. The PM said in the meeting that as the world is moving toward the “Next Normal” era, all members should focus on the following three aspects:
First, global security is essential for long-term growth. We must preserve a trusting atmosphere between countries. Powerful countries, such as the United States, should find the optimal solution to problems, and we are eager to assist in establishing a peaceful world.
Second, digitalization will propel the world forward. It is reported that over 60 million people have become internet users since the outbreak of Covid-19. This indicates that ASEAN will soon become one of the major digital markets, and Thailand is fully committed to the development of digital infrastructure that will allow all countries to compete on an equal footing in this market.
Third, more serious climate change action is required. Every country should not prioritize economic growth over environmental preservation. Thailand has pledged to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to zero by 2065. If every country invests more in developing eco-friendly innovations and sharing them, we may be able to achieve the goal much sooner.
Additionally, ASEAN members and the US president made a joint vision statement which covered eight topics as followed:
- Collaboration in public health
- Economic cooperation
- Maritime cooperation
- Humanitarian cooperation
- Promotion of development in the sub-region
- Utilizing technology and promoting innovation
- Coping with climate change
- Cooperation on regional and international issues
Following the speech, the Thai Prime Minister invited the US President to the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meeting in Bangkok at the end of this year. The PM will arrive in Thailand tomorrow morning, May 15th, according to a spokesperson.
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