Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, speaking at the 80th session of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) in Bangkok, called on member countries to adopt innovative approaches to achieve sustainable development in the Asia-Pacific region. The session, themed “Leveraging Digital Innovation for Sustainable Development in Asia and the Pacific,” addressed critical issues pertaining to sustainable progress.

Srettha highlighted concerns about the slow pace at which the region is advancing towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are projected to extend beyond 2062 without transformative action. He underscored the role of digital innovation as a key enabler to accelerate development processes cost-effectively and efficiently.

The prime minister proposed making digital transformation inclusive and people-centric, focusing particularly on the agricultural sectors that dominate the region's economies. This strategy is expected to enhance food security, promote sustainable farming practices, and advance environmental sustainability.

In line with these objectives, the Thai government has launched the “Ignite Thailand” project, targeting strategic areas such as the digital economy, future mobility, and medical technologies, all of which are driven by digital innovation.

Srettha also discussed the importance of mitigating risks associated with digital advancements, such as cybersecurity threats and the digital divide, advocating for a robust cooperative framework to secure a safe and equitable digital future for everyone in the region.

The Thai Premier also emphasized ESCAP's crucial role in integrating digital technologies to drive sustainable development and reaffirmed Thailand's readiness to support a collective regional effort to realize these goals.