Welcoming Remarks  

by H.E. Mom Luang Suparat Devekul, Advisor to the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand

for the Side Event at the 8^th Asia-Pacific Forum on Sustainable Development

“Transformative Models to Build Back Better: Thailand’s approach to
a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable COVID recovery”

23 March 2021

12:15 – 12:20 hrs. (via Video Message)

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Distinguished Panellists,

Distinguished Participants,

It is a great pleasure for me to welcome you to this side event to the 8^th Asia-Pacific Forum on Sustainable Development, organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand on the topic of “Transformative Models to Build Back Better: Thailand’s approach to resilient, inclusive, and sustainable COVID recovery”.  This event will focus on the importance of home-grown approaches to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals in the post-COVID era.

Development approaches that fit well with the contexts, cultures and ways of life of respective countries have become more important than ever.  Similarly, the approaches that underline balanced and inclusive growth would contribute to sustainable and resilient recovery.

We have ten years to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.  Amidst the current pandemic, we have to redouble our efforts and enhance collaboration to find ways under the “new normal” to successfully achieve sustainable development in this Decade of Action.

In this regard, Thailand has been implementing the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy or SEP, which has been internationally recognised and has become a part of the Sustainable Development Goals.  The Philosophy focuses on moderation, responsible consumption and people-centred development.  When resources are sustainably utilised, people are empowered, and the social fabrics are strengthened, the community is better cushioned against the unforeseen. 

Distinguished Panellists,

Distinguished Participants,

Thailand has shared her experiences and best practices on Sufficiency Economy Philosophy with partners through South-South and Trilateral Cooperation programmes led by Thailand International Cooperation Agency or TICA, the representative of which is one of the panellists today.  We look forward to further cooperation with interested partners.

The forum today is an opportunity for panellists and participants from different places and walks of life to exchange their views and experiences on the issue.   I also look forward to the fruitful outcomes that would help bring about sustainable paths of development.

Thank you.

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