BANGKOK, 16 September 2013 The National Economic and Social Development Board of Thailand (NESDB) has held its annual meeting, discussing “Thailand’s path to preparing for the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC).”
The purpose of this meeting was to create a platform for the society to exchange ideas and solutions from many perspectives about Thailand’s current progress in stepping towards the AEC, as well as to enable the country to implement policies that reflect a united and strong community. Over 2,000 people were invited to attend the forum, including members of parliament, NESDB committee members, scholars, organization and community leaders, the press as well as the general public.
Presiding over the opening of the meeting, Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra delivered an opening speech as regards the government’s policies towards its preparation for the AEC. The meeting was held at the Royal Jubilee Ballroom at Impact Muang Thong Thani, Nonthaburi Province.
Displays were set up to inform the public of Thailand’s progress on the preparation for the AEC, including plans for transportation and inter-ASEAN rail linkages. Exhibitions were also set up by the Department of ASEAN on the theme of “ASEAN Day 2013: Our People, Our Future Together”, with the collaboration of PTT Chemical Public Company Limited, The Department of Trade Negotiations, The Ministry of Transport, and the Public Relations Department.
Mr.Akom Termpittayapaisit, NESDB Secretary-General made the opening remarks. Mr.Akom stated that the directions for Thailand’s preparations for the AC were as stated in the 11th National Economic and Social Development Plan, which was to be integrated to form the plans for preparations and in formulating annual fiscal budget policies. According to him, not only must the government adapt to and shape its policies for the AEC, but every sector must also try to integrate their plans on economic, social, and environmental aspects accordingly.
Six strategies have been addressed in the 11th National Economic and Social Development Plan, which are those on building foundations for justice, developing food security and energy security, building a strong agricultural industry, adjusting the structure for a stable and sustainable economic growth, developing education, creating sustainable environment, and creating an effective network within ASEAN.
