BANGKOK, Thailand – Thailand has presented the outcomes of the 11th ASEAN Ministers Responsible for Culture and Arts (AMCA) Meeting to the Cabinet, highlighting progress in regional cultural and artistic cooperation. Culture Minister Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol led discussions on Thailand’s contributions to ASEAN’s cultural economy, stressing the role of creative industries in economic development.
The latest AMCA forum, held in Malacca, Malaysia, brought together ASEAN ministers, the ASEAN Secretary-General, and representatives from Dialogue Partners, including China, Japan, and South Korea, to strengthen cultural diplomacy and regional collaboration.
Thailand introduced its “4 Policies, 3 Strategies, 2 Models, and 1 Goal” framework, focusing on cultural integration and economic expansion. Delegates endorsed the “Connecting Cultures, Creating Futures: Unity in Diversity” joint statement, underscoring the importance of culture and arts in sustainable growth. Key topics included the transfer of the ASEAN City of Culture title to Malacca, the Vang Vieng Declaration on supporting cultural SMEs, and preparations for a new ASEAN Strategic Plan for Culture and Arts post-2025.
The meeting also explored greater collaboration with the United Kingdom and Germany on creative economy development. ASEAN ministers held discussions with British Council representatives and German cultural institutions to strengthen international partnerships. ASEAN Plus Three cooperation was further reinforced with efforts to expand cultural exchanges and establish an ASEAN Cultural Heritage Listing to protect and promote regional heritage. (NNT)
