Lima, Peru – H.E. Ms. Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Prime Minister of Thailand, alongside H.E. Mr. Maris Sangiampongsa, Minister of Foreign Affairs, represented Thailand at the 31st Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders’ Meeting (AELM) held in Lima, Peru. The meeting was chaired by H.E. Ms. Dina Ercilia Boluarte Zegarra, President of Peru, and concluded with significant outcomes aimed at fostering sustainable and inclusive growth in the Asia-Pacific region.
Key Outcomes of the 31st AELM
The meeting culminated in the adoption of three main documents:
- 2024 APEC Economic Leaders’ Declaration – reaffirming the commitment to regional economic cooperation and integration.
- Ichma Statement on a New Look for FTAAP – outlining strategies to advance the Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific (FTAAP).
- Lima Roadmap – promoting the transition to a formal and global economy, with a focus on inclusivity and sustainability.
Thailand’s Commitment to Regional Growth
During the Leaders’ Meeting, Prime Minister Paetongtarn highlighted Thailand’s dedication to promoting multilateralism, peace, and shared prosperity. She emphasized the importance of ensuring equitable opportunities for all, reaffirming that “no one is left behind.”
The Prime Minister underscored Thailand’s readiness to:
- Advance regional economic integration through FTAAP.
- Enhance digital infrastructure and connectivity.
- Expand the APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) scheme to support digital nomads and facilitate mobility.
Sustainability and Green Transition
On sustainability, the Prime Minister encouraged APEC economies to intensify efforts to implement the Bangkok Goals on Bio-Circular-Green (BCG) Economy. She proposed ambitious targets for a green transition, advocating for the development of carbon credit markets and trade. Additionally, she urged advancements in agricultural technology to bolster food security. Thailand pledged to act as a “bridge-builder,” strengthening cooperation between APEC and global partners in these critical areas.
Prime Minister’s Highlights at APEC
In her Facebook post, Prime Minister Paetongtarn reflected on the key points she presented:
- Digitalization and Innovation – to promote formal economic transition and enhance digital connectivity.
- FTAAP and Artificial Intelligence – for regional economic integration.
- Sustainability and Clean Energy Transition – leveraging the Bangkok Goals on BCG Economy.
She also shared her experience at the APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC) Working Lunch, where she discussed inclusive development with leaders like Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
Delivering a keynote at the APEC CEO Summit, the Prime Minister highlighted Thailand’s success with its universal healthcare program, “30 Baht for All,” telemedicine advancements, and preparations for an aging society. She reiterated Thailand’s vision to be a global medical hub.
Gala Dinner at the Presidential Palace
The event concluded with a spectacular gala dinner hosted by President Boluarte at the Peruvian Presidential Palace, a celebration of cultural exchange and unity among APEC leaders.
Moving Forward
The 31st AELM in Lima marked a significant step toward inclusive, sustainable, and innovation-driven growth in the Asia-Pacific. Thailand’s leadership and proactive strategies reaffirm its pivotal role in fostering regional cooperation and addressing global challenges.