MANILA – The Foreign Minister Don Pramudwinai and Commerce Minister Apiradi Tantraporn have traveled to the Philippines’ capital of Manila to attend the annual APEC Summit.
The Foreign Minister on Monday participated in the first plenary session held under the theme “Inclusive Growth through Sustainable and Resilient Communities.” The meeting reported that more than half the world’s population live in urban areas, which are rapidly expanding. This situation has created a need for sustainable and balanced development.
Mr. Don said that Thailand has emphasized the use of education to develop human resources, as well as building capacity through technology and innovation. He reasoned that this approach will help all sectors in society to benefit equally from economic growth, without abandoning the underprivileged.
The Foreign Minister also affirmed that the Kingdom will move forward with its reforms to accomodate its aging society and become the bridge for international cooperation. Thailand, in its G77 Chairmanship for 2016, affirmed that its principles are in line with the goals and agenda of the UN developing countries.
Mr. Don also met with his Australian counterpart Julie Bishop on the sidelines of the APEC Summit to discuss a range of bilateral issues from anti-human trafficking operations to food innovation. He invited Australian entrepreneurs to invest in Thailand, particularly its six special economic zones.
