On 29 March 2016, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs held the 2^nd MFA CEO Forum. The Forum serves as an exclusive platform for foreign Ambassadors in Bangkok to directly get acquainted with leading members of the Thai private sector and learn firsthand of their potential, with the aim of fostering mutually beneficial business opportunities.

         The opening remarks by Permanent Secretary, Dr. Apichart Chinwanno, was followed by the keynote presentation by Vice Chairman of the Charoen Pokphand or C.P.Group and President and CEO of True Corporation PLC, Mr. Suphachai Chearavanont. The C.P. Group has long been the major player and contributor in the agro-industry and food, marketing and distribution sectors, while True Corporation PLC has played a leading role in developing Thailand’s telecommunication industry.

         As CEO of Thailand’s top conglomerate, Mr. Supachai shared the vision that drives the corporate strategy and business plan towards sustainable development of Thailand’s economy, as well as the economies of the destination countries.

         The event was well attended by representatives from over 40 embassies, almost half of whom were of ambassadorial rank.  After the talk, the attendees had a lively discussion on the constructive role and commitment of the private sector towards global sustainable development, while pursuing economic growth.

         The Ministry of Foreign Affairs plans to organise the MFA CEO Forum on a regular basis to underscore Thailand’s economic potential as a basis for economic engagement with foreign countries as well as to showcase the Thai private sector’s contribution to global sustainable development. The Forum was initiated by the Permanent Secretary, with the 1^st CEO Forum successfully held in 25 February 2016.