During the 2023 APEC Economic Leaders’ Week, the United States hosted the APEC Ministerial Meeting (AMM) and related meetings on 14 - 15 November 2023 in San Francisco, California. The AMM was co-chaired by the Honourable Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State, and Ambassador Katherine Tai, United States Trade Representative. From Thailand, H.E. Mr. Napintorn Srisunpang, Deputy Minister of Commerce, and H.E. Mr. Sihasak Phuangketkeow, Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs attended the meeting.

The AMM concluded successfully and delivered a Joint Ministerial Statement by consensus. Additionally, during the 2-day meeting, APEC Ministers shared their views on the topics of “Enabling an innovative environment for a sustainable future and affirming an equitable and inclusive future for all” and “Building a resilient and interconnected region that advances broad-based economic prosperity”. To this end, Thailand highlighted (1) the urgent need to address the climate crisis through the implementation of the Bangkok Goals on BCG Economy, which was the Leaders-level outcome during Thailand APEC host year in 2022; (2) the promotion of resilient supply chains through investment in infrastructure, such as Thailand’s Landbridge project; (3) the utilisation of innovation including digital technology and AI to boost growth and reduce inequalities; and (4) increased resilience through upgrading of the education system and the Universal Health Coverage.

Furthermore, Thailand was honoured to be given the opportunity to announce the inaugural winners of APEC BCG Award, one of which is Ms. Nuanla-or Dherdkiattikun, founder of the Aromatic Farm from Thailand, who will provide an excellent example and inspirations for others to drive the Bangkok Goals and the BCG Economy Model forward. At the same time, Thailand was also pleased to note that Mr. Jamikorn Srikham, also from Thailand, won the first prize of the 2023 APEC Photo Contest. These winners reflect the awareness and the importance that the Thai people attach to APEC and the sustainability agenda.

Finally, Thailand was pleased to give opening remarks at the first Sustainable Future Forum, initiated by the United States to be a platform for the public, private and other stakeholders to engage on the issue of sustainability. This event was inspired by the Bangkok Goals, which has become an important legacy from Thailand to APEC, paving the way for robust and sustainable growth for the Asia-Pacific region.