Bangkok: United Nations Conference Centre, Bangkok: The Prime Minister delivered a keynote address opening the 82nd annual session of ESCAP, emphasizing a people-centered, inclusive approach, leaving no one behind. He stressed the importance of building a society for all ages to address a volatile world and an aging society.
According to Thai News Agency, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul attended and delivered a keynote address at the opening ceremony of the 82nd Session of the Commission (CS82) of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), under the main theme 'Leaving no one behind: advancing a society for all ages in Asia and the Pacific.' He was accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sihasak Phuangketkaew and Minister attached to the Prime Minister's Office Supamas Isarabhakdi.
The Prime Minister addressed the current global situation, which is increasingly uncertain due to geopolitical tensions, escalating climate change, and tighter financial conditions. These factors affect people of all ages and make achieving the Sustainable Development Goals more difficult. In this context, development must be inclusive and leave no one behind. Therefore, the main theme of this year's conference, "Driving Society for All Ages," is not merely a policy goal, but a truly crucial strategic agenda.
The Prime Minister also addressed the context of the Asia-Pacific region rapidly entering an aging society and millions of young people entering the labor market, stating that it is necessary to create a society that values all ages and provides opportunities for everyone to grow to their full potential. This can be achieved through promoting lifelong learning, supporting the health and participation of the elderly, ensuring that all groups benefit from economic and technological changes, and having equitable access to basic services and social protection systems.
Thailand's approach is based on a simple principle: people-centered development. It prioritizes investment in lifelong learning, promoting quality aging, supporting decent work in a changing economy, and strengthening a comprehensive social protection system, building upon the universal health coverage system, to ensure citizens can live with dignity and security.
The Prime Minister stated that progress towards achieving several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is not on schedule, necessitating more aggressive action. He identified three key areas for focus: 1. Political will: Policies must be aligned with long-term goals and commitments must be fulfilled concretely. 2. Funding: Additional resources, including private sector investment, must be mobilized, and new financial instruments must be utilized to their fullest potential. 3. Cooperation: Closer collaboration between the government, private sector, and civil society is crucial. Regional forums like ESCAP can facilitate the exchange of best practices and broaden the application of solutions.
The Prime Minister also emphasized that Thailand is proud to have hosted ESCAP since 1949 and values ESCAP's role as a platform for discussion, cooperation, and practical action, especially in a complex and rapidly changing world. Thailand is committed to supporting ESCAP to strengthen regional cooperation with domestic initiatives and translate shared goals into tangible results.