On November 11, 2021 at 7:00 p.m. in Thailand time, Gen.Prayut Chan-o-cha Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Join the discussion between the leaders of the APEC Economic Area andAPEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC-Leaders’ Dialogue) via a teleconference system. Then, Mr. Thanakorn Wangboonkongchana, spokesman for the Prime Minister’s Office. Summary of key points as follows:
The Chilean ABAC delegation, as ABAC President, spoke of the importance of integrating cooperation amongst others in considering the reopening of borders. Economic recovery after the situation of COVID-19 Coping with the problem of inequality and helping vulnerable groups affected by COVID-19 and asking APEC to set common goals with the people at the center
New Zealand’s prime minister said APEC understood well the wishes of the business community for a coordinated approach. In order for us to move towards an economically strong region, New Zealand also needs to rely on cooperation from the APEC. No country can overcome the problem unilaterally. All parties should work together to promote economic connectivity. Develop skilled and qualified workers including helping vulnerable groups in society such as ethnic minorities and women affected by COVID-19. and do not have access to technology to lead to revival
for discussion betweenAPEC Economic Area LeaderWith APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC) this time, APEC leaders are divided into 5 groups, which Thailand is in group 1, together with APEC economic leaders from Australia, Malaysia and China. Taipei, in the discussion, Mr. Robert Milliner, Representative of ABAC Chile, had a question to the Prime Minister that
“Covid-19 has caused severe negative impacts on the most vulnerable groups in society, including women, small businesses. and the ABAC ethnic group believes in safeguarding the future. We must address and unlock the full potential of these vulnerable groups. meanwhile We face the growing dangers of climate change and the need for a transition to a low-carbon economy. Find out what tools can be used to address the challenges of inclusive and sustainable development.”
Then, General Prayut stated that Thailand was aware that the world was facing many challenges in many dimensions. Choosing the right tools is of paramount importance in moving towards the future of APEC. Currently, Thailand has vaccinated people with 83 million doses and is expected to reach 100 million by the end of November, and has made advance arrangements for 2022. Thailand as one of the 12 founding countries APEC Believe that the situation of the epidemic of Covid-19 This is a good opportunity to analyze how fragile economic growth is.
In 2020, the 21 APEC economies had a gross domestic product (GDP) of $53 trillion (US$ 53 Trillion), while global gross domestic product in the same year was $84.5 trillion. Thailand believes that to achieve strong, resilient, sustainable and inclusive growth requires a paradigm shift, not resting on the GDP figure. Rather, it should be based on the principle of Thriving for balance and finding a common stand that will bring about harmony (Harmony) of all sectors of society and the economy. between economic zones as well as between man and nature which balance (Balance) and cooperation as a partner Collaborative partnerships are at the heart of the holistic development of the bio-economy. circular economy and green economy or BCG Economy
The key driver for economic recovery and growth is the private sector. where the government is the sponsor (Facilitator) The key is cooperation and joint investment between the private sector (PPP) to create a sustainable, inclusive future. and respond to future changes especially in terms of bringing technology and innovation to develop from the strong base of bio-resources. while conducting business with a focus on sustainable global impact reduction especially environmental sustainability Conduct business responsibly and giving importance to the environment, society and good governance
for Thailand There must be serious cooperation between producers and consumers to make APEC a low-carbon economic region. from production methods to conservation Efficient use of energy Reducing waste and pollution by adopting evolution and new technologies. readiness to adapt and appropriate and fair transitions
However, the Prime Minister is confident that APEC, as a forum that prioritizes cooperation with the business community, will drive collective, inclusive and sustainable efforts in line with the BCG economic concept and can vigorously cooperate to make our economic zone a Climate Leader for Global Survival
Later, Mr. Hiroshi Nakaso, Representative of ABAC Japan and President of Daiwa Securities Group Research Institute There was a question to the Prime Minister that “In your opinion What role should APEC play in facilitating the transition to a low-carbon economy? And how can businesses support that role?”
The Prime Minister replied that within the working mechanism of APEC The transition to a low-carbon economy has been driven steadily. But APEC still has to maintain its dynamics driving the issue. This is evident from the calls from last week’s COP26 meeting. Emphasizing the need for all parties to demonstrate their commitment to sustainable growth and reducing carbon emissions
for Thailand Governments are committed to increasing readiness to address climate challenges and reduce carbon emissions, such as achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 and net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. By 2065 or earlier, Thailand also aims for electric vehicles to make up 30 percent of total automotive production. By 2030, 15 million electric vehicles will be used. cars, or one-third of all motor vehicles by 2035, including increasing the country’s forest area to 55 percent.
Also during the hosting of the APEC of Thailand Thailand will endeavor to present a list of APEC’s common environmental goals based on the BCG economic concept, where businesses are critical in APEC’s transition to a low-carbon economy. Whether investing in renewable energy Implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals waste management innovation development including human rights in care, protection and remedies.
