Thailand’s Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has underscored the urgent necessity to combat cross-border cybercrime and bolster digital security. This assertion was made during his address at the APEC summit, where he called for enhanced regional collaboration in response to this escalating threat.
Anutin attended the 32nd APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting (Session II), convened in Gyeongju, South Korea, themed “Preparing a Future-Ready Asia–Pacific.”
The proceedings commenced with an inaugural address from South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, followed by statements from various APEC leaders.
Thailand’s PM advocates for cooperative digital security efforts
In his remarks, the Thai Prime Minister remarked that APEC has served as the principal catalyst for the Asia-Pacific region over the last 36 years, facilitating its evolution into a cornerstone of global economic vitality.
However, he acknowledged that the world faces rapid transformations spurred by technological advancements, demographic changes, and climate dynamics, which challenge the region’s resilience and adaptability.
Anutin emphasized the importance of APEC to persist in its commendable efforts to uphold stability, innovation, and adaptability. In this context, Thailand proposed three pivotal strategies.
The first calls for nurturing regional cooperation and inclusive growth, supplemented by a second focus on establishing leadership in the realm of artificial intelligence.
Lastly, he accentuated the significance of digital transformation, asserting that it would be futile for any nation in the region to be left behind.
According to Charnvirakul, a comprehensive approach to regional economic integration is essential to ensure shared prosperity across all sectors, particularly benefiting the most marginalized groups in society.
He strongly advocated for APEC’s initiative in fostering AI development and digital transformation, asserting that these domains ought to be built upon the tenets of trust, responsibility, equitable access, and safety.
In this vein, Thailand has established AI ethics guidelines, aiming to ensure that emergent technologies are developed and employed in a secure and equitable manner.
Charnvirakul addresses the escalating threat of cybercrime
Charnvirakul also highlighted the pressing issue of cybercrime, stating, “Concurrently, Thailand emphasizes the imperative of confronting cybercrime, particularly online fraud and human trafficking—cross-border challenges that necessitate united regional efforts.”
This comprehensive approach encompasses facets such as information sharing, synchronized law enforcement, and enhancing public awareness regarding various incidents and preventive measures.
He expressed gratitude towards South Korea and the United States for their leadership in this sphere, indicating that Thailand is poised to collaborate with them via the Anti-Online Scam Operation Center (AOC) and the APEC Online Scams Exchange Forum.
Moreover, the Prime Minister noted that Thailand is advancing policies aimed at safeguarding the welfare of individuals of all ages, which include extending universal healthcare, implementing intelligent family planning, and creating employment opportunities.
“In an increasingly borderless and unpredictable world, no economy can thrive in isolation. Should APEC forge ahead in solidarity, it will remain an indispensable engine of global advancement,” the PM asserted.
“The path forward may be fraught with challenges, yet APEC will navigate it collectively—with robust collaboration and common objectives—to cultivate a region that is interconnected, sustainable, and genuinely future-ready.”
Industry Minister Thanakorn Wangboonkongchana commended the Prime Minister’s leadership, observing that although he has only been in office for a brief period, it is evident that Thailand is gradually regaining prominence on the world stage.
He noted that the PM’s recent participation in the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting alongside the APEC Business Advisory Council has highlighted Thailand’s potential to the international community.
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