BANGKOK, Thailand – Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has outlined Thailand’s global strengths, highlighting the country’s potential as a leading food hub, a cultural tourism destination, and a center for future industries. Speaking at the “Go Thailand 2025: Women Run the World” event in Bangkok, she underscored the need for investment in agriculture, sustainable energy, and technology to enhance economic growth and global competitiveness. The premier also underscored the importance of regional cooperation in addressing environmental challenges such as PM2.5 pollution.
Paetongtarn stressed the value of Thailand’s cultural heritage in driving tourism and economic expansion, highlighting plans to promote year-round festivals, develop wellness tourism, and expand visitor attractions beyond major cities. The government is working to improve service industries and encourage higher tourism spending, seeking to create more opportunities in local economies. Infrastructure development and policy support will be directed toward maximizing the benefits of cultural and experiential tourism.
Thailand is now focusing on strengthening its role in high-tech and sustainable industries. Plans include investment in semiconductors, data centers, and renewable energy to support industrial growth while reducing environmental impact. Education reforms and scholarship programs, such as the ODOS (One District, One Scholarship) program, will be expanded to equip young people with skills for emerging industries. These efforts align with Thailand’s goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 and enhancing its role in the global green economy.
The prime minister also spoke on gender equality, highlighting Thailand’s strong representation of women in business leadership while acknowledging the need for greater female participation in government. She stated that leadership ability should be recognized regardless of gender or identity.
Speaking from her experience as a female leader and mother, Paetongtarn encouraged young women to pursue leadership roles and build confidence in their abilities. She urged them to recognize their potential to drive change at every level of society. With the right opportunities, she said, Thailand’s people could succeed in shaping the country’s future and strengthening its position on the global stage. (NNT)
