Thailand Proposes Key Areas To Strengthen Asean Leadership Amid Challenges

By Kenny Teng

VIENTIANE, Oct 9 (Bernama) -- Thailand’s Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, proposed three key areas to enhance collective leadership in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) during the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits held here on Wednesday.

In her address, Paetongtarn underscored the urgent need for stronger collaboration among ASEAN member states to address complex challenges, ranging from geopolitical tensions to natural disasters.

She pointed to the devastation caused by Typhoon Yagi as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by the region.

"At this critical juncture, ASEAN faces numerous challenges, including geopolitical competition and natural disasters. The widespread impact of Typhoon Yagi on ASEAN communities highlights the need for coordinated action," she said during the closed-door session of the 44th ASEAN Summit’s plenary at the National Convention Centre.

The Prime Minister’s speech was shared by the Thai government's spokesperson, Jirayu Houngsab.

Paetongtarn, the youngest Prime Minister of Thailand at 37 and the only female leader, outlined three key areas where ASEAN must focus its efforts to enhance regional leadership – namely sustainability, human security, and deeper regional integration.

"Sustainability, human security, and deeper regional integration are vital areas where collective leadership within ASEAN can drive meaningful progress," she emphasised.

She further stressed that Thailand is committed to promoting people-centred development and building a more resilient and interconnected ASEAN community.

To achieve this, she said, ASEAN must engage external partners and reinforce its centrality and unity when addressing common challenges.

"ASEAN cannot advance these initiatives alone. We must strengthen our partnerships while acting together on issues of mutual interest. This will ensure that ASEAN’s engagements with external partners are strategic and relevant," she added.

Paetongtarn warned against allowing ASEAN to become a proxy in global power rivalries, calling for constructive cooperation to maintain peace and stability in the region.

In her closing remarks, Paetongtarn expressed Thailand's optimism about the future of ASEAN’s partnerships, particularly looking forward to the ASEAN-South Korea and ASEAN-New Zealand Comprehensive Strategic Partnerships.

The Prime Minister’s remarks reaffirm Thailand’s commitment to a collaborative and resilient ASEAN as the region navigates increasingly complex global dynamics.

-- BERNAMA