Thailand assumes 2022 APEC Chair

By Linda Khoo Hui Li

BANGKOK, Nov 12 -- Thailand tonight took over the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) 2022 chair from New Zealand.

At the handing over ceremony held virtually tonight Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan o-cha said Thailand is honoured to host the 2022 APEC, and is now ready to welcome APEC families and guests to the country in November 2022.

He announced the theme for 2022 APEC - Open. Connect. Balance - which means APEC is open to all opportunities, connected in every dimension, and balanced in all aspects.

Prayuth also invited the APEC leaders to ‘synergize’ strength and determination in creating an open, dynamic, resilient, and peaceful APEC community for the future generations.

In a symbolic gesture, New Zealand’s Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern handed over a waka paddle to Prayuth for Thailand to paddle forward the APEC canoe.

Earlier, during APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting (AELM), Prayuth said APEC should prioritise three issues – rebooting regional connectivity particularly in the travel and tourism industry, rejuvenating trade and investment and revitalizing economies to ensure long-term growth to push through the COVID-19 crisis.

In advancing APEC’s work on sustainable and inclusive growth, Prayuth affirmed Thailand’s determination in utilising the country’s vast experience.

He also congratulated New Zealand for the success in delivering the implementation plan to translate the Putrajaya Vision 2040 into concrete actions.

“Thailand would continue the work of APEC and closely collaborate with other economies, especially in the context of the post-COVID-19 world, for the prosperity of our region and the people,” he said. 

-- BERNAMA