H.E. General Prayut Chan-o-cha (Ret.) attended the 13th Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM 13) hosted by Cambodia via videoconference under the theme “Strengthening Multilateralism for Shared Growth” during 25-26 November 2021. This year marks the 25th anniversary of ASEM. The first ASEM Summit was held in Bangkok in 1996. Currently, Thailand serves as the ASEAN Group Coordinator within the ASEM process.

ASEM Leaders agreed on the need to strengthen multilateralism. They expressed their commitment to enhancing cooperation based on mutual trust, mutual respect, mutual benefit and equal partnership. Leaders discussed the path towards a post-COVID-19 socio-economic recovery that is sustainable,inclusive, and people centered. The Meeting also agreed to promote cooperation on connectivity, including digital and people-to-people connectivity, technology and green financing to mitigate the impacts of climate change, health emergency preparedness, and equal and fair access to COVID-19 vaccines. In addition, Leaders discussed regional issues, including the situations on the Korean Peninsula as well as in the South China Sea, Afghanistan, and Myanmar.

The Prime Minister shared his vision through his 4 statements delivered during the ASEM Summit – Opening Remarks and a Joint Press Statement delivered on behalf of the ASEAN Group, and statements at the Plenary and the Retreat Sessions delivered in his national capacity. In his remarks, the Prime Minister stressed the importance of strengthening multilateralism in tackling global challenges, restoring the balance of all things, in order to recover the economy and generate sustainable and green growth. In addition, the Prime Minister stressed the importance of Asia-Europe cooperation in promoting startups, green finance, education, and adaptation to the Next Normal era through the promotion of digital technology usage and the digital economy.

The 13th ASEM Summit was convened successfully, and was attended by 42 Leaders. The next ASEM Summit will be held in Europe in 2023.