Thai Prime Minister delivers welcome address at the 68th Session of the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP)
On 21 May 2012, Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra attended the Ministerial Segment of the 68th Session of the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) at the United Nations Conference Centre, whereby she delivered a welcome address. In her speech, Prime Minister Yingluck addressed the theme of the Commission Session - “Enhancing regional economic integration in Asia and the Pacific: Towards a comprehensive framework”. She shared Thailand’s experiences, policy priorities and expectations, in particular with ASEAN and preparations for the inauguration of the ASEAN Community in 2015, as well as the role ESCAP could play in enhancing regional economic integration throughout the Asia-Pacific region.
The Prime Minister’s statement was later echoed in the day by Foreign Minister Surapong Tovichakchaikul, who outlined Thailand’s vision, experiences and contributions to ASEAN, South-South cooperation, regional connectivity, the narrowing of development and social gaps, as well as reducing the region’s vulnerability to climate change, natural disasters and environmental degradation.
The day then concluded with a welcome reception for delegates from across the Asia-Pacific region, hosted by Foreign Minister Surapong at Vithes Samosorn Hall, Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In a brief welcome statement, Permanent Secretary Sihasak Phuangketkeow, on the Foreign Minister’s behalf, emphasized Thailand’s role as a United Nations hub, not only for ESCAP but also for other international organisations, as well as the Royal Thai Government’s readiness for its bid to be a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for the term 2017-18.
Click here for the Prime Minister's welcome address and the Foreign Minister's country statement:
http://www.mfa.go.th/internet/information/29140i2.pdf
For further information, please contact the Press Division, Department of Information, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Tel.02-6435170, Fax.02-6435169, E-mail: div0704@mfa.go.th