On 26 August 2013, Mr. Surapong Tovichakchaikul, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, delivered the keynote address and opening remarks at the Asia-Pacific Ministerial Dialogue: From the Millennium Development Goals to the United Nations Development Agenda beyond 2015 at the United Nations Conference Centre, Bangkok.

Initiated by Thailand, the Asia-Pacific Ministerial Dialogue was aimed at providing a forum to discuss the region’s priorities and issues in determining the Development Agenda beyond 2015—the year when the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) are due be completed.

Leading the discussions on the post-2015 development agenda, Mr. Surapong said that the agenda must be responsive to challenges in the Asia-Pacific region, such as poverty and natural disasters. He stressed that a new development framework must place people at its core and incorporate the values of justice, sustainability and inclusiveness. It should carry forward the best of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) with continued concentration on poverty, hunger, gender equality, education, and healthcare. He further noted that the post-2015 development framework should not leave anyone behind.

The post-2015 development framework, Mr. Surapong said, should incorporate certain key elements. First, he urged the global community to address various forms of inequality, especially amongst women, girls, people with disabilities and vulnerable groups.  Second, he called for further improvement of health and expansion of universal health coverage. Third, he reiterated the need for more effective disaster risk reduction and preparedness. Fourth, he stressed for strengthening the rule of law, good governance and guarantee of human rights and fundamental freedoms.

Mr. Surapong suggested that the Asia-Pacific region work together to advance the voice of developing countries, especially in addressing the interlocking issues of peace, security and development. He was of the view that broader partnership with other regions could bring about greater improvement of human well-being worldwide.