On 30 September 2013, Mr. Surapong Tovichakchaikul, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, hosted a reception in New York to launch Thailand’s campaign for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the term 2017-2018.

The reception was attended by dignitaries from around the world, including several foreign ministers and high-level delegates who were in New York for the 68th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, as well as many permanent representatives to the United Nations and members of the diplomatic corps in the United States.

Addressing the attendees, the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister underlined Thailand’s contributions to the work of the Security Council, including its participation in peacekeeping operations and constructive role in promoting human security, most notably through sustainable development.  He announced that ASEAN had endorsed Thailand’s candidature and pledged that the country would be a champion of constructive dialogue to explore common ground and build consensus, bridging all stakeholders to form a renewed global partnership.