Manila:The Prime Minister is gearing up to attend the 49th ASEAN Summit, aiming to strengthen ASEAN's role in tackling regional challenges and setting the stage for Thailand's ASEAN chairmanship in 2028. Central to the discussions will be three pivotal issues that will guide Thailand's leadership. Additionally, the signing of the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement is anticipated to enhance the region's digital economy to an estimated US$2 trillion.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Jaithai Upakarnnitikaset, Director-General of the Department of Information and spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, disclosed that Mr. Sihasak Phuangketkaew, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, will join the Prime Minister's delegation at the summit in Manila, Philippines, from November 14-17, 2026. The summit's main theme is "Navigating Our Future Together."
The Prime Minister's agenda includes participating in the 49th ASEAN Summit and summits with external partners, including China, Japan, the Republic of Korea, India, Australia, and the United Nations, along with the Special ASEAN-US Summit. Various other summits, such as ASEAN+3 and East Asia Summits, will address issues like regional peace, economic cooperation, and human security.
Mr. Sihasak will attend several ministerial-level meetings, such as the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting, focusing on enhancing ASEAN's ability to adapt to challenges and promote regional stability and security. Discussions will also cover the implementation of the Five Consensus Points on Myanmar.
Ms. Jaithai highlighted that Thailand will advocate for maintaining ASEAN's centrality and its role in global dialogue, focusing on economic integration, creating a strong regional presence, and fostering a people-centered ASEAN. The ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement, finalized by Thailand, is a significant milestone that could elevate ASEAN's digital economy to US$2 trillion, marking the first regional digital economy agreement worldwide.